The number on Maryn Morrison’s volleyball jersey carries a history she intends to honor.
The Tahlequah High School senior wears the former number of Sadie Hale, a past teammate who showed Morrison how much one person’s attitude can influence an entire team. Hale remained encouraging when circumstances became difficult, and Morrison now tries to provide that same steady presence for those around her.
That connection reflects what Morrison values most about volleyball. The sport has given her more than opportunities to compete; it has surrounded her with people who have shaped her high school experience.
“The community that we have and the friends that I have made along the way,” Morrison said.
Those relationships are evident in the qualities Morrison notices in her teammates. She considers Maddy Moore the team’s best setter and Aniyah Hooper its most vocal player. Avry Bynum can be counted on to bring laughter and energy, while Hooper and Moore set an example with their effort on defense.
“Aniyah or Maddy would rather dive for a ball than let it drop,” Morrison said.
Morrison brings her own calculated approach to the court. She prefers using a jump serve because it allows her to generate more topspin, although she adjusts depending on the space available.
“It really depends on the court size, but I personally prefer a jump serve because I can get more topspin on the ball rather than a standing serve,” Morrison said.
Volleyball has also changed the way Morrison responds when something goes wrong. Instead of viewing failure as a reason for embarrassment, she has learned to treat it as part of becoming better.
“Failure isn’t something that I should be ashamed about, but I should learn and grow through those experiences,” Morrison said.
That mindset follows Morrison into a schedule filled with academics, service and other interests. Math is her favorite subject, and Mrs. Wicks is her favorite teacher. Morrison participates in robotics, gardening, Student Council, National Honor Society and Interact Club. Through Tahlequah’s robotics program, she also helps mentor younger students.
Her example at home comes from her mother, whose willingness to help others has never prevented her from remaining present for her daughter.
“My mom, because she is willing to do whatever someone asks of her while also being able to make it to every game and be supportive,” Morrison said.
Morrison finds that same spirit of support at her church, her favorite place in Tahlequah. It is another community where she feels connected — and another place where a volleyball game is never far away.
Whether she is serving, mentoring younger students or carrying forward the example of a former teammate, Morrison has learned that growth rarely happens alone. It is built through the people willing to dive for one another when the ball — or life — begins to fall.
