Senior Night is not only a tradition, but also an acknowledgment of the dedication, accomplishment, and journey student athletes, performers, and club members have made over the past four years. It’s an emotional, proud, and introspective evening, and the center of attention falls on those who have sacrificed their time, talent, and heart to their team, school, and community. Whether it’s stepping out onto the court, field, or stage for the last time, Senior Night is both the culmination and the end, a celebration of the past with an eye toward the future.
Senior Alessandra Yaniz called the night exciting but also emotional. “It was kind of intimidating to play on Senior Night, to have my whole family and friends out there watching me play, especially after witnessing the last couple of Senior Nights,” she said. The game, with all the crying and cheering, was the epitome of her growth as a person and an athlete. “I’ve grown as a player and into a person who stands up for teammates and isn’t obsessed with the trash-talk side of the sport.” What she’ll miss the most are the people. “I will miss how quickly we became close and how every time we had practice or a game, we always laughed and took care of one another. We supported each other regardless.” Her advice to young players is simple: “Have fun. Time actually does pass quickly, so make the most of every moment—mistakes and all, go for it.”
For senior Oriana Jaramillo, the moment she stepped onto the court that night was magical. “Leaving the court on Senior Night was strange because I always used to say goodbye to other seniors, and this time it was my turn,” she said. It didn’t truly sink in until later. “It didn’t set in until after I knew I’m never going to play against or with these girls, and Coach Funcia won’t be occupying the end of the bench anymore. But in the meantime, I was just so proud of my teammates, and I know they’re going to do some great things.” What she’ll miss most is seeing her fellow teammates outside of the court. “I love the way I get to know both sides of their personality on and off the court.” Reflecting on her growth, she added, “I was a quiet little freshman who didn’t want to try out for volleyball or do anything extracurricular. Now I’m a senior, and I’m very involved in a lot of things. I think I found my personality.” Jaramillo’s advice to younger players is all about bravery and kindness. “Try everything. You won’t know what you dislike until you try it. And treat everybody nicely too, on the court, in the hallway, even after school. You don’t know what someone is going through.”
Moments like this show how much sport has shaped each senior, not only in skill but in character. Beyond the wins and losses, volleyball has given them friendships, confidence, and lifelong lessons about teamwork and perseverance. The bond they’ve created through hours of practice, laughter, and shared goals has built a family that extends far beyond the court and will continue to inspire them in everything they pursue.
Senior Isabel Miguel shared those same feelings of pride and sadness. “Walking through that gym for the last time on Senior Night, I was sad but also happy because I knew that the season was actually over,” she said. Volleyball has been more than just a sport to her; it has been family. “I’ll miss the family I’ve created, the friends I’ve gained because of the sport, and the memories,” she said. Isa believes that volleyball has done a great deal for her as a player and as a leader. “I have grown and developed my game and learned to be a better leader for others.”
Senior Night marks the end of these seniors’ high school volleyball days, yet it’s also a reminder of the learning, friendships, and self-improvement that have shaped them into who they are now. Their words of wisdom remind us to treasure every serve, every game, and every moment spent with teammates, because those are the moments that will far outlast the sound of the final whistle.