OUR ATHLETE OF THE WEEK COMMUNITY PARTNER
Each week, Monitor staff selects and interviews a local Athlete of the Week. Learn more about their accomplishments, their goals and what makes them unique. We’d like to thank our sponsor Capital City Kia.
Our partners do not participate in the selection of these athletes. That is fully at the discretion of our journalists.
Mackenzie Shelby, a Merrimack Valley senior, is among the nucleus of athletes that formed the school’s first varsity volleyball team.
What started as a summer camp before her freshman year turned into two years of junior varsity and now a season as captain of a new varsity team.
Her coach, sports management and physical education teacher Tom Clark, described Shelby as one of the cornerstones of the program.
“She, among a few others, deserves credit and recognition for driving forward the progress to where we are today; being a strong and inspirational presence of the team,” Clark wrote.
Between balancing multiple Advanced Placement courses and her sport, she’s equally comfortable on the court as she is in the classroom.
Q: How did you find volleyball, and why do you enjoy it?
A: I watched a show that caught my eye and gained my interest in the sport. As soon as a club team started, I joined! It was my eighth-grade year, and we got to play with the high schoolers. I struggled a lot when I was first starting, but I’ve loved it ever since then!
Q: How have you worked towards becoming a better player?
A: I structure workouts in the gym that can help me succeed. In my off-season, I play on a club team and regularly attend summer clinics. I’ve focused on mindful eating and taking care of my body so I can put in the most effort for the school season.
Q: Your coach said you’re a strong student. Tell us what you enjoy in school and how you balance that with volleyball?
A: I enjoy challenging myself with more difficult classes, while also managing relationships, work, and volleyball. I use a daily planner to map out any homework I have, and to plan out practices and games to understand my schedule better. I believe that learning to manage myself now will prepare me and allow me to succeed in college.
Q: What does it mean to be a leader for your team?
A: Being a leader is about showing up for not only myself, but for everyone around me. Sometimes it’s being the loudest on the court, a supportive friend to talk to, or helping my coach plan practices!
Q: What’s the hardest part of playing volleyball?
A: The hardest part of playing volleyball for me is trying not to get in my own head. I’ve learned that focusing on the next point and putting all my effort into each pass is the only way to move on. Having a supportive team and a “goldfish mentality” (as Tom says) also helps me keep a clear mindset throughout each game.
Q: Who are some of your mentors, and how have they helped you?
A: My biggest mentor has been my coach, Tom Clarke. He’s been here from the start as a coach, teacher, and a friend to talk to when I need it most. Tom has always had so much faith in our team, and I look up to his commitment to MVHS Volleyball.
Q: What are some goals you have for the future?
A: I would love to play volleyball while in college. Whether on a school or club team, I know I want to keep volleyball in my life forever. I’m hoping to go to school as a sports dietitian or athletic trainer, so I can help others be successful in their sport as well!