In volleyball, excellence is shaped by unwavering fortitude and competitiveness on the court. The game requires not only hand-to-eye coordination, but also quick decision-making time. Without composure amid the game’s unpredictability, a match can pass by them in the blink-of-an-eye. Luckily, senior co-captain and middle blocker Daniela Watson thrives under this pressure. With a 9-7 overall record this season, the Panthers’ early success has been largely paved by her strong leadership.
During last year’s club season, Watson played for Mid City’s 17-1s team, which placed first at the Las Vegas Classic tournament and third in the USA Volleyball Junior Club Championships. This year, following her final season of Poly athletics this fall, Watson will be joining San Gabriel Elite’s 18 Excel team. As a starting member on both her club and Poly varsity teams, Watson is no stranger to success. However, what often remains unseen is the strong work ethic behind her achievements. Every successful attack, set and game is backed by hours of practice and dedication refining her craft.
Sophomore setter and defensive specialist Sophie Gaspard shared, “Daniela is a very hardworking, determined and dedicated player. I believe this is why she is so successful in her endeavors, both on and off the court.” Watson knows that hard work leads to success, and she naturally exemplifies this at every opportunity.
With four seasons of club experience and four years of Poly volleyball under her belt, Watson serves as a role model for the rest of the team. As this year’s co-captain, she has embraced this title and the responsibilities that come with it, including setting a precedent for strong performance on the court and mentoring underclassmen. “Daniela is one of our team captains this year, and one of our two seniors. I think she’s definitely somebody that everyone looks up to and respects, especially because she’s had so much experience playing volleyball at Poly,” shared junior setter and defensive specialist Keira Kim.
Gaspard added, “She is a strong leader, and the whole team looks up to her. Her constant support, feedback and compassion help her lead us through the good and bad times. She is the first to practice, set up the nets and hold us all accountable. I think she is a very inspirational and passionate leader or teammate, which gives her an immediate advantage when hyping up the team.”
This combination of leadership and work ethic demonstrates what makes Watson such a valuable player. With the hopes of continuing her athletic career in college, these traits will distinguish herself from the rest during the college recruiting process.
In addition to her leadership responsibilities, Watson anchors the team’s defense as their middle blocker. Stationed at the center of the net, the position requires her to quickly respond to attacks in the moment with little time to prepare.
Head Coach Katrina Damasco-Dicipulo shared, “She’s a middle blocker, and one of the few on our team. It’s a hard position to fill and the fact that she does this position, and does it well is vital to our success.” All together, her position and skills make Watson a critical piece to the team’s success.
Through her leadership, work ethic and performance on the court, Watson has become an integral part to Poly’s volleyball team. As her senior year progresses, we are all excited to see her continued contributions and wish her the best of luck as a Poly community.
