The Strength of Leadership & Its Influence On My Growth: January 2026 Scholarship Essay by Alexandra

The Strength of Leadership & Its Influence On My Growth: January 2026 Scholarship Essay by Alexandra - January 2026 Scholarship Essay

The echo of high-fives rang through the crisp morning air, mixed with the faint smell of the rubber court and palpable anxiety. “We need to focus, play how we normally do, and not overthink our mistakes, just brush them off and fix them,” I say as I wrap my arms around my two other teammates. That team huddle set the tone for our last match of the season, one that would test our unity and resilience.

For the first few sets, our teamwork felt seamless, and I could sense our confidence building. That momentum shifted suddenly when Kaitlyn, our outside, missed two serves in a row.​We regrouped, and with every point, I made sure to encourage my teammates, especially Kaitlyn. By the end of the match, we had pulled off a hard-fought win.

An hour and a half later, we successfully won all three games. The season was over, and our team remained undefeated. We held up 3-0 with our hands as we stood (if you’re tall) and knelt (if you’re short). Several parents took pictures and posted them on social media. My Co-Captain and I uplifted the team during the most difficult moments – when we’re down in the score and morale. It’s incredibly heart-warming to know that my team trusts me to boost our morale, which leads to wins.

​During the last match of the season, we were down by numerous points, and I noticed one of my teammates, Kaitlyn, becoming visibly discouraged. During a time-out, I pulled her aside and reminded her of all the incredible plays she had made earlier in the tournament. I encouraged her not to focus on her mistakes, but rather on what she had done well in the tournament and throughout the season. When the game resumed, her energy shifted dramatically, and she made many more plays, which helped us come back and win. My positive reinforcement helped cultivate a collaborative spirit under pressure.

​In that moment, I discovered a new strength in myself: leadership. Becoming a strong leader wasn’t just about the victories, but a process of personal growth. Each match and practice developed my skills as a player and my overall character. I learned the value of teamwork and communication, understanding that every player’s contribution is vital to our team’s success. Celebrating our wins together and reflecting on our losses fostered a deep bond. I learned that challenges are baby steps to success, and by leaning on each other, the opportunities to overcome challenges are infinite. I’m excited to carry these lessons off the volleyball court, knowing that leadership is about appreciating those around me and collaborating towards our shared goals.