Sophomore Mackenzie Shand, a middle blocker for the Women’s Volleyball Team, has played an important role in the team’s notable 22-4 record.

Shand began playing volleyball in seventh grade when a middle school teacher encouraged her to try it. Shand admits that she was reluctant to try the new sport at first.

“My sixth grade teacher made me,” she said. “ I didn’t want to play volleyball. I wanted to basketball,” said Shand.

Six years later, Shand is still playing volleyball, a sport she values due to the team dynamic. She said that she has met some of her closest friends through volleyball, and credits the team’s overall success to the strong relationships between players.

“I think our chemistry as a team and our depth makes us successful,” said Shand. “ We get along so well, and there is so much talent.”

When asked about her individual success this season, Shand also linked her impressive record to her team as a whole.

“Everyone else doing well helps me do well,” she said.

Shand said the before every game, she follows a special routine in order to “get in the zone.”

“I’m very superstitious,” she said. “I listen to the same songs before games, and [always] wear the same socks.”

When looking for athletic advice, Shand looks to her father for guidance. Shand’s father, David Shand, was a professional hockey player for the Atlanta Flames, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the Washington Capitals. Shand credits her father with shaping her as an athlete.

“He gives me advice all the time,” she said. “All I have to do is call him. He is  always so helpful and has helped develop me a lot,” Shand said.

Although another ODAC Championship seems to be a  strong possibility for the Women’s Volleyball Team this season, Shand said that doesn’t like to look too far ahead. She said that she prefers to focus on each game individually.

“One game at a time,” said Shand.