This fall, Barstow girls volleyball gears up for a dominating season!

Mylie Cadwalader ‘25, one of Barstow’s varsity volleyball team captains, has a palpable energy and focused mindset that define the squad’s preparations and will bring them success. The volleyball team is brimming with anticipation.

One of the key aspects players are looking forward to is the opportunity to build stronger connections with their fellow teammates, “I am most looking forward to getting to play with the team and get to know everyone better,” shares Cadawalder ‘25. This sentiment reflects the team’s focus on unity and collaboration, which is crucial for a successful season. 

Despite the optimism, there are concerns that linger in the background. Keeping the team healthy and free from injuries is a primary focus, “My biggest concern is just keeping everyone healthy and healed enough to play so we can all have a great season together,” Cadwalader ‘25 admits. Ensuring that all players remain in top condition will be essential for achieving their goals. 

On a personal level, one challenge that the players face is managing their mental game. “Staying out of my head can be really difficult, especially during a tough game,” says Cadwalader ‘25. This mental toughness is something they have been working on improving throughout their athletic journey. The ability to move past mistakes quickly is crucial for maintaining focus and performance. This resilience is a hallmark of the Barstow volleyball team’s approach to the game.

Team practices have been progressing well towards creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere, “The team is looking really good, and we have a lot of fun. I think it’s going to be a great season,” Cadwalader ‘25 notes. The combination of effective practices and a supportive environment has set the stage for a promising season. 

The team’s success is also rooted in its core characteristics.What sets Barstow’s volleyball team apart is its unique blend of camaraderie and enthusiasm. “We all genuinely enjoy the sport and also enjoy each other. We have a really fun and silly team dynamic,” Cadwalader ‘25 reveals. This positive team spirit contributes to an environment where players are motivated to give their best and support one another. 

As the season kicks off, the overall goal is clear. “We all just want to put our best foot forward and play the best we can on the court. Obviously, we would love to make it to state, but getting there is definitely a process and we just have to take it game by game,” Cadwalader ‘25 concludes.

This mature mindset speaks to the iterative success the volleyball team has experienced over the last several years. Any small school team will go through cycles of rebuilding and success, but being patient with that is difficult. Cadwalader ‘25 emphasizes the process, speaking to her skills as a team leader.