Meet Cecily O’Sullivan, the #3 2028 Recruit

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='575184' first='Cecily' last='O'Sullivan'] is playing at a new level this year and establishing herself as one of the region's elite defenders. Athletic, explosive, and composed, she brings a dynamic presence to the backcourt. Her defensive game is built on sharp anticipation, disciplined positioning, and a commitment to reading attackers. She takes pride in clean digs, precise ball control, and giving her team consistent, high-quality first touches. Her ability to neutralize aggressive offenses and keep rallies alive sets her apart, especially in high-pressure moments. O'Sullivan commands the court with clarity and calm, consistently organizing the defense and instilling confidence in those around her. She plays with an intensity and leadership that elevates everyone on the floor.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As a freshman, O'Sullivan earned a coveted spot on the powerhouse Jesuit Varsity squad — one of only three freshmen to do so. Surrounded by top-tier talent, including standout DS/Ls Addy Azavedo (University of Washington) and [player_tooltip player_id='238094' first='Kiana' last='Johnson'], she used the season as a learning opportunity while contributing in key moments as a defensive specialist. This also allowed her to be a part of a State championship-winning team as Jesuit went on to win the 6A State Championship.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>This club season, O'Sullivan returned to compete with her age group on Athena 15 Gold, where she took over the libero role. Her impact was immediate and sustained, anchoring the team's backcourt and helping lead them to an American bid, the second-highest awarded in the CEVA region.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>From Kayleigh Hames, Athena 15 Gold Head Coach:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Cecily is a fierce competitor with a relentless drive and unmatched intensity on the court. As a libero, she brings exceptional volleyball IQ, consistently making smart reads and quick decisions that elevate the entire defense. She runs the back court with confidence and precision, keeping the team organized and locked in. Her consistent, high-quality passing puts our hitters in great situations time after time, creating scoring opportunities and driving the offense forward.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I had the chance to email back and forth with O'Sullivan, and she answered some questions for us:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true} --> <ol class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Why did you choose to play volleyball? What got you hooked? What do you love about it?</strong><br><br>I grew up in a gym. My weekends were filled with tournaments watching my brother and sister from as early as I can remember. Playing with all of the other kids at those events sparked my love for the game. The first time I played on a team was 3rd grade CYO Volleyball. I wanted to be like the big kids, so I practiced every chance I got. Whether it was with my siblings' club coaches before their practices, or messing around with other kids in the gym, I couldn't get enough. My love for the game is driven from competition, hustle, and seeing hard work pay off.&nbsp;
<br></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>What has been your favorite memory from volleyball so far?</strong><br><br>My favorite volleyball memory thus far is definitely having been a part of the 2024 6A state championship team. Jesuit volleyball was an amazing experience. From simply being able to compete at that level all the way to having such a great group of girls who pushed me to be a better player and teammate. <br></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>What's the best piece of advice you've received that's helped you grow as an athlete?</strong><br><br>The one piece of advice that has stayed with me is that there is always someone out there who is better than you, but not necessarily someone who wants it more, be that person.
<br></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>What are your goals for your volleyball career? What are your high school, club, and collegiate career aspirations?</strong><br><br>Like most players, my biggest dream is to play D1 volleyball. My hope is that high school and club volleyball will continue to push me to make my dreams come true.<br></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->