With each powerful spike and pivotal block, senior Olivia Ip has developed into one of Poly’s most formidable volleyball players. She fell in love with the sport when she first started playing in middle school, and her passion has only grown stronger each year.
Inspired by her father who played volleyball in both high school and college, Ip was eager to follow in his footsteps.
Now, as a senior, Ip is co-captain on the girls Varsity volleyball team and has guided them in achieving their phenomenal 19-2 record this year.
Her deadly spikes, leadership and ability to rally her teammates have played a pivotal role in the team’s success. Ip’s athletic gifts are not limited to her skills on the court but also include her ability to inspire those around her.
Sophomore Stella Martinez commented, “Olivia, one of our captains on the volleyball team, is very passionate about volleyball and never fails to liven up the mood. She knows how to bring out the best in everyone, and that’s what makes her such a great leader.”
Martinez’s remark sheds light on a crucial part of Ip’s leadership: her ability to elevate the performance of the entire team. She creates a positive atmosphere that helps her teammates stay motivated, even during challenging moments.
In addition to her commitment to Poly’s volleyball team, Ip pursues her passion for the sport outside of school while competing in her 18U club season, where she competes in club volleyball and has participated in numerous national tournaments.
Her participation in these tournaments has provided her with knowledge and experience that she applies to her Poly game as well. With her club team having won a few of these tournaments, she’s certainly no stranger to victory at a high level.
One of the most notable assets of Ip’s game is her adaptability and versatility. Originally playing on the right side for two years, her transition to playing on the outside this year was seamless. The ability to switch to a new position and role while maintaining a high level of play shows her work ethic and deep understanding of the game.
It is this combination of talent and flexibility that has made her such a valuable player for both her school and club teams.
With her sights set on the future, Ip is committed to furthering both her volleyball and academic career at the University of Chicago. There, she will have the opportunity to continue enhancing her volleyball skills within a new, rigorous atmosphere.
With her impressive track record, great passion for the sport and a bright future ahead of her, Olivia Ip will be a name to look out for. Her contributions to the Poly volleyball program will have a lasting impact, and she is sure to bring her leadership and enthusiasm to the collegiate level. Poly will be supporting Ip as she takes her game to the next level.