Chasing dreams and building confidence: Meet Marvin Ridge senior volleyball player Kiley Petras
MARVIN, N.C. — For Kiley Petras, the dream has always been to compete at the collegiate level, ideally in Florida. But before taking that next step, her focus is on a high school athletic milestone: leading her team to a state championship and earning a spot on the All-State team for her final season. Heading into the playoffs, her team is ranked #1 in the state, and the energy surrounding this moment is palpable.
One of her biggest challenges throughout her volleyball career has been balancing the need to maintain self-confidence with her role as a leader, both on and off the court. As a middle blocker, she鈥檚 known for her skill and agility, even though she鈥檚 one of the shorter players in her position. Precision in timing and footwork is everything to her game. Fortunately, she鈥檚 had incredible support along the way, especially from her mother, who sends her daily words of encouragement, including a favorite: 鈥淟earn from your past, and grow for your future.鈥� These words serve as a guiding principle, especially during the high-pressure moments of her volleyball journey.
She has been fortunate to have long-term mentorship from coaches Brook Hammers and Jo Meewes, who have coached her for years. They鈥檝e not only shaped her as a player but also as a leader, instilling in her the values of teamwork and perseverance. Their guidance has been crucial to her development as both an athlete and a person.
Volleyball is more than a game for this athlete 鈥� it鈥檚 a source of joy and camaraderie. She adores her coaches, her teammates and especially the sight of her parents cheering her on at every match. Playing year-round has taken her all over the U.S., giving her the opportunity to forge deep bonds with her teammates, who have become her best friends. Off the court, she鈥檚 a vocal cheerleader, and her energy in supporting her team is something she takes pride in.
When it comes to pre-game rituals, she embraces a fun and lighthearted approach 鈥� styling her hair in a crazy way before each game. It鈥檚 a simple act that helps her relax and gives her a boost of confidence. Leading her team in a pre-game chant or cheer is another responsibility she takes seriously, knowing that teamwork and unity are essential to their success.
Outside of volleyball, she enjoys spending time at the gym, watching her boyfriend play football for the Weddington Warriors and attending as many of her friends鈥� events as possible. She also runs an online food blog, trying new restaurants and exotic dishes. For the past four years, she鈥檚 been a member of Young Life, which has offered her valuable lessons about life and leadership.
Being part of a team has taught her the importance of working together for a common goal. Volleyball is a team sport, but she believes it鈥檚 the support they offer each other on and off the court that makes them as good as they are. She also understands the significance of being a role model, not just for her teammates but for younger players, including her brother.
The best advice she鈥檚 ever received came from Coach Jose during her 14鈥檚 year: 鈥淪i Se Puedo,鈥� which means 鈥淵es, we can.鈥� It鈥檚 a simple phrase, but it has become a mantra that drives her through every challenge she faces. Now, as a senior, she hopes to pass on advice to younger athletes: 鈥淎lways have fun, exude confidence, smile big, believe in yourself and don鈥檛 let time pass you by 鈥� take it all in.鈥� This mindset has allowed her to grow from every mistake and build resilience over time. A few years ago, she let negativity cloud her love for the game, and she even questioned whether she wanted to continue playing. However, with the support of her coaches and teammates, she rediscovered her passion and fought hard to catch up in the recruiting process. Her goal to play at the collegiate level remains strong, and she鈥檚 working tirelessly to make it happen.
High school volleyball at Marvin has afforded her incredible opportunities. She has had the chance to be mentored by outstanding players, form lifelong friendships, and build lasting connections with her coaches. Above all, she is deeply grateful to her parents, who have been her loudest and most loyal supporters throughout the journey. Their belief in her has never wavered, and she credits them for helping her chase her dreams both on and off the court.
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