By Sofia Nguyen
With shared goals of earning volleyball scholarships, freshmen Ila Robinson and Ocea Martin are already making a statement on Fountain Valley High School’s (FVHS) varsity court. Both athletes have contributed their drive and energy to the program.
Martin, a middle blocker, finds the sisterhood of volleyball, making new friends and playing the sport while still being competitive, to be the best things about the sport.
Three years ago, she was just testing things out.
“I was just trying a whole bunch of different sports, and I liked [volleyball] the best,” Martin said.
That decision has paid off, as she has found herself competing on the varsity team and Liv Volleyball Club as well. Her biggest piece of advice is short and simple: “Don’t give up.”
For this season, her plans are to get more consistent, to be faster at the net and to have better reaction time. Additionally, she emphasizes the impact of teamwork.”
“[Teamwork is] supporting your teammates even when they’re making errors or having an off day and not being the coach,” Martin said. “It’s being a teammate and letting your coaches coach.”
Robinson, daughter of FVHS teacher Jeremy Robinson, plays both outside and opposite hitter on varsity and also competes at Goldenwest Volleyball Club. At first, it was for fun, but now her four years of experience have helped her support and encourage her teammates.
Looking ahead, Robinson has clear goals:
“Start on my team in club, go to Nationals, win something at Nationals, and then get a scholarship for college in volleyball.”
When she’s not competing, Robinson enjoys shopping and spending time with friends. On the court, she values volleyball’s balance of fun and teamwork.
“I like how [volleyball is] not super just towards you, how some sports are doing. Yeah, it’s not too much pressure. It’s a team sport,” Robinson said.
Collectively, both athletes have enjoyed how light-hearted the team is and how welcoming all the upperclassmen are. As freshmen stepping into big roles, Martin and Robinson are not only adjusting but shaping the future of FVHS’ volleyball program.
