Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight: Isabella Vander Velden, Luxemburg-Casco

Sport: Volleyball
Parents’ names: Logan and Alee Vander Velden
Siblings: Logan, Elijah, Myles
Position or events: Outside hitter/middle hitter
Career Highlight: Blocking the last ball to win 27-25 in the fourth set against Freedom my sophomore year.

At what age did you start playing your main sport?
I started playing volleyball when I was 10.
Who introduced you to the sport?
I looked up to my cousin when I was young and she played volleyball, so that’s what first sparked my interest.
Has this always been your favorite sport?
Yes, I played basketball when I was young but never clicked with it, but when I first played volleyball I instantly clicked with it.
How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?
I took all my freshmen classes in 8th grade, and so I’ve always been a year ahead. This resulted in harder classes my freshman and sophomore years, and I had some late nights after practice or games trying to keep up with academics. Last year and this year, I didn’t/won’t have many late nights since I got past all my harder classes.
What is your favorite part about this sport?
I love being with the team and bonding with the girls. I always know when I’m out on the court they have my back and support me. After a great play made by me or one of my teammates, we always get excited for each other and lift each other up. Those are the moments I’ll remember most.
What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?
I just have a lot of love for the game. There’s times where I need a break, especially from playing year-round between school and club, but I could never imagine myself not playing volleyball.
Is there a professional athlete you look up to? If so, why?
I don’t have a specific athlete I look up to, but I do enjoy watching volleyball teams in the B1G 10.
What would you say is your biggest asset on the field/track?
I am very coachable and I always try to be a positive person on the court.
What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
The environment on game days with the team and fans is something I will always remember and look back on.
How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?
It feels pretty amazing looking back, the amount of growth I have from freshman year to now is night and day. It’s just nice to know that all the hard work I put in through the years paid off. I have also become more confident as a person in things I do.
Do you have any pre-match rituals/routines/superstitions?
I am big on visualization. So I will take a few minutes to visualize what I want to happen in a perfect situation, then I also visualize how I react when things don’t go the way I want. That way I can be prepared for anything and know how to react in those moments.
Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big match/game/meet, outside of regular practices?
I always try to get a good night’s sleep, drink lots of water, and prepare mentally and physically before a game.
Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?
I want to give a shout-out to Coach Frey, Coach Helgeson, and all the teammates I’ve played with. They all have pushed me to be the best I can be, as well as being super welcoming when I moved from Indiana after my freshman year. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for all of them helping me on my sports journey.
Any hobbies outside of sports?
I love being on the lake paddle boarding, going for hikes, doing 1000 piece puzzles, gaming with friends, and writing stories.
Favorite song?
I like country music and don’t have a specific favorite song.
Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade or water?
I love having a Gatorade after a long practice or game. Occasionally I have a Red Bull before a game.