We Speak Volleyball

Setting The Standard: How Willy Wang’s Volleyball Journey Is Fueled by Discipline, Culture, And Drive

Published

18 hours ago

June 6, 2025

For Long Beach City College standout setter Willy Wang, volleyball isn’t just a sport, it’s a way of life. Inspired by parents, who once ruled the park courts, Willy grew up immersed in the rhythm of rallies and the power of teamwork. Now preparing to transfer to Vanguard University to continue his collegiate career, his journey is marked by dedication, humility, and a mindset that thrives under pressure. From perfect sets to post-game Korean BBQ, Willy leads with heart, precision, and purpose both on and off the court.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Willy Wang.

How did you get started playing volleyball, and what made you fall in love with the sport?
I started playing volleyball because both my parents played it. I grew up watching them play at the park with their friends, and loved the team aspect of the sport. The team dynamic made me fall in love with volleyball, and what helped even more were the friendships I made throughout my career.

What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I am a setter, and I can’t see myself playing any other position. I love being able to facilitate the game. It is almost like being the brain of the team. I get to touch the ball every point, and I love the fact that behind every big play is the perfect set that led to it.

What’s a typical training day like for you during the season?
A typical training day for me is waking up at 9 a.m. for my 10 a.m. practice. After a three-hour practice, I usually go out to eat with some of my teammates. My go-to is either an açaí bowl or a poke bowl. I then go home and take a nap. My buddy and I usually hit the gym and do some strength training. By then, it’s dinner time. I truly believe there’s no better routine than a consistent one. As long as you stay consistent with your grind, you’ll see a lot of progress in your performance and health.

How would you describe your team’s chemistry this season?
This year’s team chemistry was very strong. As a team, we believe spending time off the court is just as important as practice. We like to do everything together. Whether it’s team bonfires, going to watch college games, or just sharing a meal. We’ve built a culture. We are more like a family rather than just a team.

What’s one drill or workout you secretly enjoy (or hate to love)?
My favorite drill is serve and pass. It’s the simplest drill, but as a setter, I get a ton of reps. I’m able to see many different passes around the court, and that’s where I get to be creative with my sets. I enjoy trying different things, seeing what works and what doesn’t. This allows me to add new tools to my setting bag.

How do you prepare mentally and physically for a game or big tournament?
Mentally, I prepare for games the same way I prepare for practice. I don’t do anything different or special just because it’s game day. I focus on consistency. Why change my routine or mindset for a big game? This might not work for everyone, but I’m confident enough in my game that I don’t need to mentally prepare in a different way.

What personal goals have you set for yourself this season?
My personal goal for this season, and for my whole career was to play at the Division I level. Now that I’ve reached that goal, it’s time to think about new ones.

What’s a piece of advice you’ve received from a coach that stuck with you?
“Don’t try to control the storm; learn how to dance in the rain.” In volleyball, and in life, there are so many things that are out of your control. You have to focus on the things you can change and stop trying to control the uncontrollable. That’s the best advice I’ve received.

What motivates you to keep pushing through tough practices or losses?
One tough practice or loss doesn’t define your worth. Even the best players in the world lose. It’s all part of the game. Use those moments as stepping stones. Learn from them. Use them to grow.

Where do you see yourself in volleyball over the next 3–5 years?
Honestly, I don’t really know. I don’t think too far ahead. My goal every day is just to be better than I was yesterday.

How do you handle pressure during close matches or high-stakes points?
I love pressure. I trust my training so much that I want to be the guy serving on the back line at 14–13 in the fifth set. As an athlete, especially as a setter, you need confidence. Pressure turns coals into diamonds, so be the diamond of your team.

Do you have any pre-game rituals, superstitions, or pump-up songs?
I’m big on attention to detail. This might sound weird, but I always pick my cleanest, whitest pair of socks for game days.

What’s your go-to post-tournament meal or snack?
Hands down, Korean BBQ. I love food, and I love eating lots of it. KBBQ is one of those meals you can’t really eat alone, it only feels right when you eat with a big group. It’s a great way to bond with my teammates after games.

If you weren’t playing volleyball, what sport would you try instead?
If I wasn’t playing volleyball, I’d want to play football. I can’t promise I’d be good at it, but I really want to play in front of a crowd that big.

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We Speak Volleyball

Built Different At The Net: Braedon Marquardt Rise From Blocks To Big Dreams

Published

3 days ago

June 4, 2025

We Speak Sports

Meet Braedon Marquardt, a standout middle blocker who’s been making waves on the volleyball court. Whether it’s bouncing the ball before anyone can react, or dominating the net with explosive plays, Braedon’s presence is hard to miss. He plays with grit, heart, and a deep love for the game. A passion that’s been fueled by the support of his family and close knit team. Despite the challenges of balancing academics, training, and personal time, Braedon approaches everything with intensity and commitment, living by the motto: “How you do one thing, is how you do everything.”

Today we’d like to introduce you to Braedon Marquardt.

Braedon, how did you get started playing volleyball, and what made you fall in love with the sport?
I got into volleyball because of my friends and family. They introduced me to the sport, and once I started playing, I was hooked. The energy, competitiveness, and support I felt made it easy to fall in love with the game.

Who has been the most influential person in your volleyball journey so far?
My mom and dad have been the most influential by far. They’ve been there since day one, pushing me to be great and helping me through every high and low. Their belief in me keeps me going.

What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I’m a middle blocker, and I love the fast pace and intensity that comes with it. My favorite part is bouncing the ball before anyone can even react — it feels like making a statement. It’s all about dominance at the net.

How do you balance academics, volleyball, and personal time during the season?
I believe that how you do one thing is how you do everything, so I give my all in every area. Whether it’s school, the court, or recovery time, I go hard and stay focused. Locking in and being disciplined helps me stay balanced.

What’s your favorite memory from your volleyball experience?
My favorite memory is playing in the AAU Nationals game against Sports Performance. The crowd was loud and electric, and the atmosphere was unforgettable. It felt like a big-time moment and fueled me to play my best.

What’s a typical training day like for you during the season?
My day usually starts with a lift from 8 to 9 a.m., followed by practice from 9:30 to 12. It’s a full schedule, but I like staying active and pushing myself. Every session is a chance to get better.

How would you describe your team’s chemistry this season?
We were all new to each other, so the chemistry wasn’t perfect at first. But we worked through it and ended up becoming a real family. That connection helped us fight for each other on the court.

What’s one drill or workout you secretly enjoy (or hate to love)?
I secretly enjoy the 10, 20, 30 drill. It pushes me to the edge, but it’s also where I find out what I’m made of. It’s exhausting but super satisfying when you power through.

How do you prepare mentally and physically for a game or big tournament?
Before a game or tournament, I get my mind right with music and use a little bit of controlled anger to stay locked in. That combination helps me focus and keeps my energy up. It’s like flipping a switch to game mode.

What personal goals have you set for yourself this season?
This season, I want to push through every tough moment and never give up. I’ve challenged myself to stay mentally strong and to keep improving no matter what. It’s all about growth for me.

What’s a piece of advice you’ve received from a coach that stuck with you?
Coach Glen has said a lot of things that stayed with me, but one that really hit is, “You can do anything you put your mind to.” That mindset helps me keep going even when it’s hard. It reminds me that I’m in control of how far I go.

What motivates you to keep pushing through tough practices or losses?
My family is my biggest motivation. I want to make them proud, and every tough moment is just another chance to prove what I’m capable of. Their support keeps me locked in.

Where do you see yourself in volleyball over the next 3–5 years?
In the next few years, I see myself playing college volleyball and preparing to go pro. That’s been the dream from the start, and I’m committed to making it happen. Every step I take is toward that goal.

How do you handle pressure during close matches or high-stakes points?
I honestly love those moments. Pressure brings out the best in me because I thrive in intensity. That’s when I feel most alive on the court.

Who’s the funniest teammate on the squad, and why?
Splurge is definitely the funniest on the team. I can’t even explain it — it’s just the way he is. He always has us laughing, no matter the situation.

Favorite volleyball player or team you look up to?
Karter Rogers is someone I really look up to. He plays with confidence, talent, and leadership. I respect his game and his work ethic.

Do you have any pre-game rituals, superstitions, or pump-up songs?
Before games, I always pray with Karter. That moment grounds me and gets me mentally ready. After that, I’m good to go.

What’s your go-to post-tournament meal or snack?
After a tournament, I go straight for a salmon bowl. It’s the perfect mix of fuel and flavor. Nothing beats it after a long day of matches.

If you weren’t playing volleyball, what sport would you try instead?
If I wasn’t playing volleyball, I’d definitely be on the football field. I’ve always had a passion for football too. It’s another sport where I can compete and bring that same energy.

What’s something fans or coaches might be surprised to learn about you?
Most people don’t know this, but I’m immortal in Valorant. It’s my go-to off-the-court hobby, and I take it just as seriously as I do volleyball.