In her first year on the Birmingham Community Charter High School girls’ volleyball team, freshman Naamah Silcott is already a middle blocker on varsity and she’s only getting started. 

Silcott originally started playing volleyball in elementary school as a way to pass time, but her athletic ability within the sport has only blossomed since then.

“I was surprised at first because varsity is a major achievement and I’m really proud of myself for being able to do that,” Silcott said. “To know I got on varsity so early in my high school year is pretty cool, and tells me a lot more about my abilities than I thought.”

The varsity team was at first an unfamiliar environment for Silcott but as she continues to practice and play with her team, she feels determined to succeed while being mentored by the upperclassmen on her team.

“Offensively and defensively, Naamah is just an amazing player,” varsity team captain Keona Paniagua said. “She brings really great energy onto the court and during practice. She pushes us to do our best, and brings out the best in me.”

Silcott manages to to balance academic life with volleyball by actively interacting with her teachers and fellow peers about tests and upcoming assignments. Along with becoming an all-around player, part of her long-term goal is to continue sports into college on a scholarship to medical school.

“The seniors on the volleyball team are my main inspiration,” Silcott said. “Everyone that’s in my life right now that I’ve talked to volleyball about is always pushing me to go to the next level.”