Tennessee volleyball has added another piece to its future, and Mara Sandberg’s coach says the Lady Vols are getting far more than just a talented prospect.
Sandberg has officially signed with the program, bringing in one of the country’s top high school players. But what stands out most in the evaluation from her coach, Nikki Gilbert, is the way Sandberg carries herself on and off the court.
“Tennessee is gaining a full-package kind of athlete. Mara is an athlete who will never be closed-minded; she is always looking to add tools to her toolbox and is such a sponge with the game. She has a raw and authentic love for the game that I can see each and every day, which makes her special as a player,” Gilbert said.
Gilbert also pointed to the way Sandberg fits into a team setting, saying her impact goes well beyond individual production.
“As a person, Mara is one of the best teammates I have seen among my athletes. She is constantly putting others before herself and using her game to support the player next to her.
She is infectious to those around her with her drive and determination. She will never back down from a challenge.
She has a talent of bringing people together that sets her apart from others,” Gilbert said.
For Gilbert, the excitement is rooted in how much Sandberg has earned this opportunity and how she should handle the next step.
“I am so excited for Mara's future with the Vols. She is so deserving of this kind of opportunity. I would tell Mara to take it day by day and soak in as much as possible; don't get caught looking too far ahead; try to stay in the present,” Gilbert said.
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