Wausau, Wisconsin – Clara Neitzel, 13, has played volleyball for the past two years. She also plays soccer, runs track, and performs in dance.
The Horace Mann Middle School eighth-grader played on the Wisconsin ICE 13U White and Wisconsin Ice 14U Black teams.
“My personal goal is to join the varsity team in high school, move forward with the Wisconsin Snow Volleyball Club and make many new friends throughout my athletic career,” said Clera. “I hope I can join the college team, and if not, I know most colleges have sports clubs as well.”
Clera understands that some of the biggest challenges in volleyball, and most team sports, are about communication and hard work. She knows that everyone on the team must be willing to communicate in order to work well together.
“Each player brings their own talent, which helps build a strong team.” said Clara.
Clara loves the rush of adrenaline she feels when she is on the court. She enjoys waiting for each serve or (the ball) in the middle.
She also enjoys building friendships and relationships through volleyball.
“One of my deepest relationships with volleyball is sharing that passion with my older cousins, Kenzie and Ty.” said Clara.
Being a member of a team has taught Clara to be compassionate, to be heard, to work hard, to be ready for anything, and to always have fun.
Clara received advice from a sports mentor who was only a few years older than her. She was advised to be willing to learn whenever and wherever, on and off the field. Clara knows that if you’re not ready to learn about situations and techniques, while receiving constructive feedback, you’re not really ready to learn.
“The best advice I’ve ever been given is to always have a positive attitude, because positivity gets us somewhere, and negativity gets us nowhere.” said Clara.
Outside of sports, Clara enjoys hanging out with her friends and family. She loves cheering on friends and extended family in their sports, along with each of her younger siblings when they compete.
“I also like to relax with a book or watch a TV show or movie, too.” said Clara.
“I would like to thank my parents, siblings, grandparents, extended family, friends and coaches for all the support they constantly give me when they encourage me to continue playing volleyball and other sports,” said Clera. “Always remember to never give up, and always try your best.”
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