BRIANNA’S STORY
My junior year of high school I transitioned from high level soccer to Beach Volleyball, and quickly fell in love with the sport. My passion turned in to determination to play at the highest level. I switched schools to allow for maximum training time and devoted my free time to working on my skills. That same year, I committed to play Division 1 Beach Volleyball at UC Davis. I started winning tournaments and playing for the 692 West National Team. I made the JVA watch list and was able to attend the BVCA National Championship tournament both my Junior and Senior year in high school before moving to Davis to start my collegiate journey. I chose UC Davis because although I love Volleyball, I want to pursue my dream of becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon after college. In addition to training and recruitment, I maintained a 4.8 GPA in high school. What inspires me every day is reminding myself how grateful I am to be able to play the sport I love while getting a great education to aid me in my future.
WHY ULTRA ANKLE?
I suffered from two ankle injuries at practice my first preseason here at Davis. I was told I needed ankle reconstruction surgery or I would not be able to play again. During my recovery and start of rehab post surgery, I started searching for a brace that was not only practical for volleyball but one that would prevent any more injuries to my ankle. I have been wearing the Ultra Zoom since I was cleared to walk again and I love it! Not only was it comfortable to wear even with my healing incisions, but throughout rehab it hasn’t lost its stability. As I’ve been able to progress back to running, the brace has been amazing. It fits in every shoe and feels like nothing while making sure my ankle is 100% stable. I would recommend this brace to every athlete dealing with an ankle injury, coming back from surgery, or just looking for extra support.
WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT PLAYING FOR UC DAVIS BEACH VOLLEYBALL?
The team culture, I’ve been able to make so many meaningful and long lasting connections with the girls on the team. These relationships will last a lifetime and it’s so special to have friends that share the same determination and grit as you.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUNG PLAYERS IN YOUR SPORT?
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard. My mom used to always tell me that and it never really clicked with me until I got older, but is it completely true. No matter what anyone says, the body achieves what the mind believes. If you are serious about something, work hard for it no matter what it takes. There is always going to be other athletes who “just have it”, but that should set a fire off in you to put in the work and get to the level you want. The kids who spend nights after dinner in their backyard playing wall ball, spend weekends at strength training, who make sure they eat and sleep right, will always win in the end.
