Violet Fa’amafoe is a rising powerhouse on the volleyball court, fueled by passion, perseverance, and purpose beyond her years. As a Pin Hitter for Mizuno Long Beach 12 Rockstar, Violet brings relentless energy, a love for the game, and a team-first mentality that sets her apart. Her journey began with a simple shift from golf to volleyball, but it quickly became a calling. It is one marked by dedication, sacrifice, and a deep appreciation for the bond she shares with her teammates. Whether she’s crushing a kill or lifting up the team in tough moments, Violet plays with heart and hustle every step of the way.

How did you get started playing volleyball, and what made you fall in love with the sport?
My initial sport was golf, which I continued to play throughout Covid-19. But after Covid-19, my parents wanted me to try a team sport, so they had me start volleyball at our local YMCA. After two sessions at the YMCA, my parents decided to have me try out for club volleyball at Mizuno Long Beach. As an 11-year-old, I made the 12-3’s team. Then, my second year at Mizuno, I made the 12-1 Rockstar.

I fell in love with volleyball because I found it exciting and enjoyable. Being able to play with the girls I love being around makes volleyball so special. In comparison to golf, volleyball is very fast-paced and requires high energy, which I love. Celebrating with my team and lifting them up are the things I love most about volleyball.

Who has been the most influential person in your volleyball journey so far?
The most influential person in my volleyball journey is my dad. My dad has been there for me since day one. He’s always gave me a pre-game talk, gone to my games, giving me critique to improve, and talking to me about my game afterwards. He’s always pushing me to become better no matter what. My dad also works extra hours to make extra money so he can pay for my travel tournaments and to ensure both he and my mom are there to support me.

What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
The thing I enjoy most about being a Pin Hitter is that I get to bounce balls and get kills as a contribution to my team. Celebrating my kills with my team is my favorite.

How do you balance academics, volleyball, and personal time during the season?
I have a calendar that helps me manage my schedule. Academics is my top priority, so I try to work ahead and do my homework during my downtime at school or on the weekends. As for personal time, it often overlaps with volleyball because my family is very supportive of my volleyball journey. My personal time is usually spent with travel tournaments on the weekends, which we also use as our family vacation. Whenever I am missing a family event, my family is understanding of it. They know how much I love the game. In season, I limit my time playing golf and exercises out of volleyball.

What’s your favorite memory from your volleyball experience?
My favorite memory from my volleyball experience was Salt Lake City this season, where we earned our bid. I loved this memory because I earned my first bid and I played my best game. Earning a bid was the best feeling ever. It was also the best travel tournament because there was great weather, we had a hotel connecting to the convention center, the parents had a great time, and we had the biggest player’s lounge.

What’s a typical training day like for you during the season?
A typical training day in season for me would be school from 8:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Then I would be picked up by my mom, who has lunch prepared for me to eat on the drive to Mizuno. From my school in Fullerton, we would drive to Mizuno in Gardena, which is a 45-minute drive. Then I would have my private practice that is an hour long. After that, I would have an hour break, so I would use that to get an Açaí bowl. Next, I would have a team practice that is 2 hours long. Afterwards, my mom and I get food and then go home. We get home at 8–9 P.M. so I could finish any homework from school before my bedtime, 10:00.

How would you describe your team’s chemistry this season?
I believe my team’s chemistry this season was strong. Our team was put together from scratch, so we all got along together on and off the court. Our favorite pastime was having Korean BBQ as a team.

What motivates you to keep pushing through tough practices or losses?
My love for the game. I also review past highlights and compare them to current ones to remind me how much I’ve grown as a player. I use the losses as fuel. I also remind myself of the sacrifices my parents make so it’s possible for me to play a sport I love and compete at the highest level.

How do you handle pressure during close matches or high-stakes points?
I stay in the moment. I avoid looking at the scoreboard and take one play at a time. I focus on my coaches’ advice and try to implement them. I embrace the challenge.

Who’s the funniest teammate on the squad, and why?
Gail (another outside hitter) is the funniest on the team. She has a way to make fun of all of us on the team without hurting our feelings. This helps whenever the tension or pressure is high.

Do you have any pre-game rituals, superstitions, or pump-up songs?
I pray the night before a tournament and also during the car drive (or walk) to every tournament. I don’t cut my hair during season. I use the same hair ties and tie up my hair the same way at every tournament. We always wore our black uniforms on the first day of each tournament.

What’s your go-to post-tournament meal or snack?
Canes – 3-piece chicken tenders, 2 Texas toast, fries, and lemonade.

If you weren’t playing volleyball, what sport would you try instead?
Flag football.

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