We Speak Volleyball
From Reluctant Rookie to Defensive Force: Harper Lassiter’s Rise as a Vocal Leader and Game-Changing Defensive Speacialist
With relentless hustle and a voice that echoes across the court, Harper Lassiter is making her mark as a defensive specialist/libero for TVC 16-1 National. What started as an unexpected introduction to the sport at age 9 has turned into a deep-rooted passion that fuels her every dig, dive, and serve receive. Now fully immersed in the grind of competitive volleyball, Harper brings leadership, energy, and a fierce work ethic to every match, determined to reach the next level and leave everything on the court.
How did you get started playing volleyball, and what made you fall in love with the sport?
I started at 9 when I was signed up for rec and wasn’t looking forward to it. I’ve loved it ever since and am so glad my parents forced me to go, or else I never would’ve found the sport I love.
Who has been the most influential person in your volleyball journey so far?
Harper Murray
What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I am a defensive specialist/libero and I love hustling after balls and getting great ups! I love being vocal and talking to my hitters!
How do you balance academics, volleyball, and personal time during the season?
I try to get most of my work done ahead of time because I know how busy my weeks are!
What’s your favorite memory from your volleyball experience?
My entire 14s season!
What’s a typical training day like for you during the season?
3-hour practice in the morning followed by weights, some sort of solo practice in the afternoon.
How would you describe your team’s chemistry this season?
Great! All of our personalities work well together and we know when it’s time to lock in!
What’s one drill or workout you secretly enjoy (or hate to love)?
The pit drill
How do you prepare mentally and physically for a game or big tournament?
I pray! I can do anything with God by my side!
What personal goals have you set for yourself this season?
Work to get better every day, try my hardest to achieve all of my goals.
What’s a piece of advice you’ve received from a coach that stuck with you?
Create my angles early in serve receive.
What motivates you to keep pushing through tough practices or losses?
Knowing that in the end it will all be worth it and remembering my end goal.
Where do you see yourself in volleyball over the next 3–5 years?
Finishing club ball and hopefully going on to play at the next level!
How do you handle pressure during close matches or high-stakes points?
I love high-pressure situations. It forces me to go after everything and play to my full potential! If I’m playing a lower-level team, I know that not much is at stake, which leads me to not play to my fullest!
Who’s the funniest teammate on the squad, and why?
Caty Van. She can make anyone laugh in any situation without even meaning to.
Favorite volleyball player or team you look up to?
Harper Murray
Do you have any pre-game rituals, superstitions, or pump-up songs?
Every time I wear my Mizuno knee pad on my right knee and my Adidas knee pad on my left knee, I always play really well.
What’s your go-to post-tournament meal or snack?
Gerber baby melts and baby puffs are my go-to.
If you weren’t playing volleyball, what sport would you try instead?
If I didn’t play volleyball, I would love to try golf or tennis!
What’s something fans or coaches might be surprised to learn about you?
I was set on playing basketball in college before starting volleyball!
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, I’d love to hear from you. Have a story idea? Want to collaborate on coverage? Looking to feature your team or athlete? Use the form below to get in touch.
Athlete Spotlight
Pro Volleyball Player Camryn Hannah Shares Insights on Life, Leadership, and the Game with Volleyball Player Loretta Duby
As part of our Athlete Spotlight series, we’re proud to feature Camryn Hannah, a standout right-side hitter for the Vegas Thrill of the Pro Volleyball Federation. Known for her composure, powerful presence, and leadership both on and off the court, Camryn’s rise from Lansing, Illinois to the professional stage is built on talent, grit, and purpose. Her journey has taken her from setting historic records at Clemson to capturing a national title at Penn State, and now thriving as a top performer in the pro ranks.
This spotlight interview was led by none other than Loretta Duby, a libero whose relentless hustle and viral highlights have earned her a reputation as one of the most exciting defensive players in the game. What started as a middle school experiment turned into an obsession with the craft of volleyball. With elite quickness, leadership, and a fire that never quits, Loretta brings both insight and intensity to every conversation, making her the perfect voice to unpack the mindset of an elite competitor like Camryn Hannah.
Camryn’s volleyball journey began when she joined her mother who played in college and on recreational teams—at the court. She started by peppering with other kids on the sidelines until she decided to chase the game herself. As she moved into collegiate volleyball at Clemson, she made immediate waves, earning ACC All‑Freshman honors and setting a record with 37 kills in a single match. In her final year at Penn State, she delivered the final kill in the 2024 NCAA championship match over Nebraska and earned a spot on the All‑Championship Team, helping the program to its eighth national title.
Drafted fourth overall by the Vegas Thrill in the 2024 Pro Volleyball Federation Draft, Camryn now competes professionally as an outside hitter and has already made key contributions to the team’s 2025 roster.
While Camryn’s athletic achievements shine, her journey is equally rooted in personal growth. One of her biggest challenges came during her first NCAA tournament, when the pressure to perform overwhelmed her. She overcame that moment by embracing support from teammates and recognizing she did not need to shoulder the burden alone. Off the court, she stays grounded by nurturing hobbies beyond volleyball and reminding herself that she is a person first, not just an athlete.
Her preparation is both physical and mental. She fuels her body properly days before a match and works to silence distractions so she can stay fully present with her team when it matters most. For Camryn, every match is an opportunity not just to excel, but to inspire. She plays not just for the love of volleyball but to inspire girls who relate to her journey, hoping to create a path for future generations, especially for the daughters she envisions for her future. Camryn’s journey is one of grit, growth, and breaking barriers, inspiring those who watch her to dream bigger and push harder. Her current ambitions include being named Player of the Year in her league and one day representing her country on the international stage.
To dive deeper into Camryn’s mindset, journey, and personality, be sure to watch the full Athlete Spotlight interview. Loretta Duby sits down with Camryn for an honest and inspiring discussion about pressure, confidence, motivation, and what it really takes to compete at the pro level. You can watch the full video now on our YouTube channel.
-
We Speak Music2 days agoErick Macek Releases “I’m Here” on May 29 2026
-
We Speak Music3 days agoThe Weber Brothers Release Reflective New Single “Hello Hollow Love”
-
We Speak Music1 week agoUnethical Dogma Pull Back The Dark Curtain For A Carefully Engineered Descent into Technical Melancholy
-
We Speak Music3 days agoAmericana Singer-Songwriter Richard Daigle Releases New Single “Cajun Getaway” — A Tribute to Spontaneity, Memory, and Louisiana Roots