Sydney Sennett, a volleyball player for Morehead State University, always knew that she wanted to play at the collegiate level. But when it came time to choose a school, she was looking for more than just a good volleyball program.
Sennett was looking for a community that would support her both on and off the court, and she found that in Morehead State.
"I chose Morehead State because of the strong sense of family within the program," Sennett said. "The coaches genuinely support me both on and off the court, helping me grow not just as a player, but as a well-rounded person."
Sennett is grateful for the opportunities she's had to grow and develop as a player and a person at Morehead State.
"Being part of this community has allowed me to thrive academically and athletically," Sennett said.
Sennett is majoring in Strategic Communications and plans to work in athletics at a university in the future. But for now, she's focused on her studies and her volleyball career.
When she's not playing or studying, Sennett enjoys spending time with her friends and family on the lake, participating in water sports like surfing and wakeboarding.
But her true passion lies in volleyball, and Sennett loves nothing more than setting up her hitters for a kill and seeing it turn into a point for the team.
"What I love most about volleyball is setting up my hitters for a kill and seeing it turn into a point for our team," Sennett said. "As a setter, I get to lead, encourage, and support my teammates — which matches my personality really well."
This Eagles team has been off to a strong start this season, leading the OVC with a current 7-0 conference record. Sennett believes that their success is due to their unique dynamic.
"We connect so well off the court, it makes it easy to connect on it," Sennett said. "That's what makes this team different. We celebrate each other's wins, big or small. Because of how we connect off the court, we play so well together on it."
Sennett is proud to be a part of such a special team and is looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish together this season.
Throughout her sports career, Sennett has faced moments of doubt, but she's learned to believe in herself and her abilities. Her cousin, Jayden Standish, who played softball at Illinois State University, has always been a role model for her.
"A role model I've always looked up to growing up is my cousin Jayden Standish," Sennett said. "She always gives her best in everything she does — whether it's school, sports, friends, or family."
For young girls hoping to play volleyball at a Division I level, Sennett has some advice.
"If I could give one piece of advice to someone wanting to play college volleyball, it would be to believe in yourself," Sennett said. "Believing in yourself is the first step to achieving anything in life, and it's especially important when competing at the D1 level."
Sennett is grateful for the opportunities she's had at Morehead State and is excited to see what the future holds for her and her team. With their unique dynamic and strong sense of family, the Eagles are poised for success this season and beyond.
