A team’s success depends on how each individual performs and how they work together as a group. If the team chemistry is good, then in most cases, the squad should be successful. Maya McPhaul is a member of the volleyball team at Bethany High School. She says that, while each team member’s work is important, it is not the only thing that brings success.

“It has taken a lot of motivation and determination to be successful,” she said. “But as a team, bonding off the courts helps you be more successful, and really makes you want to work harder for each other.”

In her junior year at Bethany, Maya currently plays setter and right-side hitter on the volleyball court. She is also a member of the track team, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, First Priority, and Leadership.

There have been a lot of people that have had an impact on her life, but McPhaul says that there are a few that have been very influential.

“My biggest role models are my parents and grandparents, especially my grandpa,” she said. “He has taught me so much growing up, as well as my parents and I wouldn’t be where I am without them. Also, Mr. Toler was probably the best teacher I’ve had because he was one of those who knows how to make learning fun but he was also a student athlete at Bethany so he related to many students in that way.”

McPhaul has enjoyed making a lot of memories during her time of playing sports. But out of all of them, she has one that stands out as her favorite.

“I’d say the highlight of my career was finishing as state runner up last season,” Maya said. “That has never been done before at Bethany, but we’re hoping to win state this year.”

Wearing the Bethany uniform and competing for her school is not something that Maya takes lightly.

“Representing my school and community in my opinion means demonstrating hard work, passion, teamwork, and sportsmanship,” she said. “Sometimes when playing it can be hard to remain positive but what helps me is thinking about all the people and especially the young girls watching hoping to one day be in our position.”