Yorba Linda鈥檚 Stys siblings set, spike and serve
YORBA LINDA, Calif. — August and Sawyer Stys are two talented siblings playing varsity volleyball on their respective Yorba Linda High School teams. August is about to finish her junior year and Sawyer his freshman year at YLHS. With a shared passion for the game and a determination to succeed, these siblings are pushing each other to excellence. For Sawyer, the allure lies in the technical and mental aspects of the game, coupled with the electrifying atmosphere of tournaments. August echoes the sentiment, relishing the thrill of competing for each point and the camaraderie shared with teammates.
Having a sibling in the same sport is a source of joy and motivation for Sawyer and August. They enjoy practicing together, empathizing with each other’s challenges, and celebrating each other’s successes. Their bond on and off the court strengthens their connection and shared love for volleyball. For Sawyer, his dream is to don the blue and gold jersey of UCLA, while August has her sights on committing to a Division 1 or Division 2 college.
These two have learned how to overcome challenges. Transitioning from the middle to the outside position posed a challenge for Sawyer, but with dedicated training and perseverance, he has overcome obstacles and gained confidence in his role. Working with a private trainer, Sawyer adjusted his game to passing back row and serving. August, having gained plenty of volleyball IQ and skill in her six years of playing, now grapples with the mental aspect of the game. She is focused on honing her mindset before, during, and after practices and games. Both siblings have been recipients of invaluable advice. Sawyer has learned the ethic of working hard on and off the court for success, while August holds onto the wisdom of hating losing more than liking winning to fuel her drive toward being a champion. The best advice they have picked up is about trying your best, having fun, and knowing that, ultimately, that is enough.
From foot faults to misplaced priorities, both siblings have faced their share of challenges. Sawyer rectified errors through specialized private training, while August learned to prioritize volleyball’s value over time, realizing the gift it truly is. Besides their varsity teams at YLHS, both siblings play club volleyball. August plays for ACT Volleyball Club and Sawyer plays for Pulse Volleyball Club. As members of a team, Sawyer and August have learned the values of positivity, respect, and teamwork. 鈥淚鈥檝e learned that I can鈥檛 win a game alone and I can鈥檛 lose alone either,鈥� says August.
Outside of volleyball, Sawyer loves to play all sports, spending time with friends, video games, and outdoor adventures, such as off-roading and trips to the river. Sawyer also played football for 7 years. August enjoys hanging out with her friends and traveling for volleyball. Sawyer describes himself as funny, determined, and positive, while August identifies as hardworking, imperfect, and determined. These siblings each have a favorite snack they indulge in. While Sawyer enjoys Spam musubi and acai bowls, August prefers Diet Coke and Trader Joe鈥檚 version of Takis. Along with prayer, Sawyer’s pre-game ritual includes stretching, music, and warm-up sessions with teammates. August focuses on reading the opposing team and locking in her mindset before stepping onto the court. Both of them also enjoy listening to Drake before a game.
Sawyer and August Stys epitomize the spirit of dedication, resilience, and camaraderie that defines the world of volleyball. With their eyes set on collegiate success and a shared passion for the game, these siblings are poised to leave an indelible mark on the volleyball landscape, inspiring future generations with their unwavering determination and unwavering bond.
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