By Olivia Dioli, Sophomore at Bishop McGuinness

Lily Hiser, a senior scholar-athlete at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, has played Villains Volleyball for the past four years. Her first experience with the sport was during eighth grade on a local club team.

“What drew me to the sport was that it appeared as a perfectly orchestrated routine,” shared Lily. She has played almost every position on the court, but most specifically the positions of right-side and outside hitter. Her well-rounded playing style is a credit to her versatility. The team aspect has always been one of Lily’s favorite parts about volleyball. “There is no better feeling than making a great pass or perfect hit, and being able to celebrate with your teammates,” said Lily. Her teammates have also been one of the most enjoyable aspects of playing for her school. “I have always enjoyed playing with my teammates on the Bishop McGuinness Volleyball team. I have made some really great friends and memories through Bishop Volleyball.”

Lily’s high school accomplishments do not stop with athletics. She was recently accepted into Duke University and plans to study biomedical engineering there in the fall. “The moment I found out about my acceptance to Duke was incredible. I had been worried about the decision all day, and when I found out that I would be going there, I burst into tears of joy.”

The road to success was not without hard work for Lily. She describes the curriculum at Bishop McGuinness as very rigorous, but she pushed herself to take as many Advanced Placement classes as possible. Her determination and drive helped her to balance school work, travel and school volleyball, and a social life. “By pushing myself, I have been able to prepare for all the new challenges that Duke will bring, and I am very excited for my future as a Blue Devil.”

Outside of school and volleyball, Lily enjoys hanging out with her friends, going to hockey games, and attending concerts. At home she loves playing with her new dog. After college, she is looking forward to majoring in a medical field which will open many doors for her in the future.