By Sylvester “Nunnie Robinson
Volleyball sensation Mikayla Porter, a 6 foot setter and OPP hitter from St. Thomas High School, has been chosen as the Westside Gazette’s Student/Athlete of the Week. Utilizing her natural physical gifts of size, length, agility, quickness and innate intelligence has contributed immensely to her individual success and the school’s elevation as a perennial volleyball power. St. Thomas recently completed its season, reaching the Florida State 6A semi-finals. With a cumulative 4.17 G.P.A. her future most assuredly includes competing on the collegiate level, for which she definitely has the physical tools to do so successfully.
Mikayla has a rather prosaic perspective when it comes to competition. Although she views Cardinal Gibbons as a natural rival, regardless of the opponent, she is going to play her game, exemplifying supreme confidence in her own abilities. Motivation, another important element for competitive athletics, is steeped in the support of her family which includes her grandmother Bonita Porter, her mother Melissa Kruszewski, and especially her father Daryl Porter, whose presence at her games inspires her to want to be great. She was also inspired by her older brother who recognized her athleticism early on, assisting in developing the mantra she feels best describes her as an athlete: commitment. Additionally , she practices breathing techniques to help her relax and always has a playlist of musical favorites to get her hyped. Mikayla also enjoys being apart of a team because it teaches you responsibility, time management and overcoming obstacles. Communicating non verbally through certain hand, facial or body moves allows her and teammates to celebrate and acknowledge great plays or performances individually and as a team. She also sees a leader or team captain as verbally effective, even forceful if and when needed, someone with that burning desire to succeed – a winner – and most importantly someone who is reliable.
Having been involved in athletics since she was four, Mikayla sees similarities between her chosen sport volleyball and basketball had she opted to compete in that sport as well. No matter the sport, she understands that poor performance, disappointment and negative situations occur during competition so it’s important to put the last play where it belongs – behind you – another component of a positive attitude, understanding that a negative attitude can impact your performance, an important tool in her arsenal of successful accomplishments.
Mikayla states that Coach Altone Williams was extremely influential in her development because not only did he recognize her talent and potential, he also taught her the fundamentals of volleyball and what commitment actually looks like.
Mikayla epitomizes today’s student/athlete, and I’m certain most coaches affirm and appreciate the following statement from Mikayla who wrote when queried about doing well as a student/athlete: “ Grades always come first; I am not just an athlete. I am a student/athlete, and I will need to do well in both areas to be successful now and in the future.”
Mikayla, your future is undeniably bright!
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