By Derrick Smith

Throughout her life, Sierra Anduss has been surrounded by an amazing group of supporters. People that she says have been there for her, both as an athlete and as a person. And that group helped shape her into the person she is today.

“I have been blessed with many people in my life that inspire and influence me,” she said. “My parents are my biggest fans and always support and encourage me. My older sister, Brianna, has always been a positive influence in my life and I know she is always there when I need her. I am also thankful for my coaches Chris and Denae Allen, who began coaching me in volleyball while I was in middle school and are currently assisting with my varsity team.”

Anduss is a senior at Southwest Covenant Christian School. She currently only plays volleyball for Lady Patriots, but has played softball, basketball and soccer in past seasons. On the volleyball court, she plays libero and serves as the team captain. This will be her seventh season of playing volleyball.

Over her career, Sierra has put in a lot of hard work and spent a lot of time to become better. But she says there are other things that have helped her become the player she is. 

“As with most successful ventures, it is a mixture of hard work and dedication to be successful in sports,” she said. “However, for me I believe my most important contribution is bringing a sense of positivity and encouragement to the game. The most successful players understand the strengths and weaknesses of their team, and it has been my experience that a positive attitude and an encouraging atmosphere can make a significant impact on winning and losing.”

Anduss has had many memorable moments as an athlete at Southwest Covenant. She says her career as a whole would have to be her favorite memory.

“I have had many great moments in my sports career,” she stated. “From scoring winning penalty kicks in soccer to serving a string of aces in volleyball. I have enjoyed the sense of pride in helping our small school make its way into regional and state playoffs, and I have shared bittersweet losses with our heads held high because I know we fought hard and played our best against schools much larger than our own.”