By Bryce McKinnis
Anna Rice, one of the top high school volleyball players in the OKC metro and a TCU commit, has experienced highs and lows in her varsity career.
“My proudest accomplishment in my volleyball career so far was winning AAU Nationals with my team this last season. my club team is like family to me so winning a national title with that group was even more special,” the Edmond Santa Fe High School senior said. “My biggest challenge was at the end of my 16s club season, I had a pretty significant back injury. I was unable to compete in regional All-Stars and was out half of my junior school season. it was very difficult to come back from not just the injury but not playing for two months.”
Through trials and tribulations within the sport, Rice has learned important values.
“The greatest lesson I’ve learned through playing volleyball is no mistake defines you,” Rice said. “Every point is a new opportunity and lingering on the mistakes only makes it worse. Look ahead to what’s next.”
So, what’s next for Rice? Before she trades in her Santa Fe green for Horned Frog purple, she wants to lead the Wolves to a state tournament appearance.
“I hope the legacy I leave is that everyone on the team matters. Everyone’s contribution to the team has an impact, no matter how big or small,” Rice said.
Off the court, Rice is just like any teen.
“I am actually pretty introverted, but once I get to know you, I’ll be the first one to have fun goofing around,” Rice said.
Academics are an important aspect of Rice’s life. She wants to be successful in every endeavor, not just sports.
“Being a student-athlete to me means finding a balance between academics and athletics and prioritizing them so that both school and volleyball get the time and attention needed,” Rice said.
