Titan Athlete Spotlight - Kylee Harris, Volleyball

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT - KYLEE HARRIS 

I've been playing volleyball since I was around 9-10 years old.

When I was 12, I made my first jump serve in a game, and my teammates jumped up and started cheering.

It was such a positive moment, and it certainly left an impression on me.

As a sophomore setter for the Titans Volleyball team at Tacoma Community College, I've had to overcome some obstacles to get where I am.

But I've found that if you have a strong mindset, you can overcome anything life throws at you.

I took a year off after high school, not quite sure what I wanted to do with my life.

I volunteered for my high school's volleyball team, and that's where I met Coach Pat.

His daughter was playing on one of the opposing teams, and after our teams played one another, he talked to me about checking out TCC's volleyball program.

So I did, and I decided it was time to pursue a higher education.

I joined the team in 2022, and I'm so glad I did.

I love the flexibility of my class schedule at the college level, and my teammates are the best.

My favorite memory so far is playing against Pierce at the beginning of the season. We had so much energy, and overall, it was such a positive experience.

I'm grateful to be here, and I can't wait to see what we can accomplish as a team.

PERSISTENCE

My senior year of high school was a tough one.

My mom had to be hospitalized due to a stroke, and it was during the middle of the volleyball season.

It was hard to play while she was in the hospital, but she didn't want me to miss out on my senior season.

I made sure to be there for my team and my family.

I kept playing, partly because I was the starting setter, but mostly because I didn't want to let my team down.

I had my teammates, friends, and family to support me through that time, and I'm so grateful for their love and encouragement.

It was a difficult time, but I learned that if you have a strong mindset, you can overcome a lot.

This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and staying focused on my goals, even in the face of adversity.

GAME DAY ROUTINE

On game day, I always set my alarm before 9 a.m. — even if I don't have class that day.

I think it's important to get your body up and moving, and to have a good breakfast.

I usually have a protein bar for breakfast, and for lunch, I have a meal with chicken and some type of carbs, like rice or bread.

When I wake up, I do some stretches and take a few deep breaths to start the day with a calm mind.

I listen to a lot of music, but my favorite hype song is 'Nokia' by Drake.

As a team, we write our team goals and personal goals on the whiteboard and take notes from watching the film on the opposing team.

This helps us stay focused and prepared for the game ahead.

Having this routine helps me stay grounded and focused on what's important on game day — supporting my teammates and giving it my all on the court.

And I wouldn't have it any other way.