Nadia Lopez, Downey

Nadia Lopez

Class: 2026
Position: DS/L/OH
Height: 5'3"
School: Downey
Club Team: Long Beach Volleyball Club

State
Position

Player Bio

How would you briefly describe your gameplay style?

All around defensive player. The game isn’t over until the last point and even then, it’s a learning experience for the next game. Communication and encouragement is key on the court, so I’m the loudest player there.

Can you provide a brief description of your mentality or personality?

I have a “get the ball at all costs” mentality. Regardless if it’s outside the court or about to hit the wall, I need to be faster to get the ball back into play. The ball doesn’t drop! I like to make sure we all are on the same page, visualizing the same goal. I’m loud, observant, encouraging, and like to make sure my team know and feels exactly what we are: a team.

Are you involved in any clubs, organizations, or have you received any non-sport awards?

I am also part of Girl Scouts and am involved with volunteering with organizations such as Shower of Hope that provide mobile showers to the homeless.

What skills or qualities have you developed, such as leadership, teamwork, or community service?

I have been captain of my last two club teams and have developed leadership skills that are key to not just the game but also are critical like skills. Communication, team work, delegating, compromising, taking and applying coaching feedback. Every player obtains a strength that is a key part to a team’s success. The key is to acknowledge the strength, and work on our opportunities.

Have you faced any significant challenges? If so, please describe.

I am the only child of a single Latina female; product of a teenage pregnancy. The adversities of coming from a low income household were always tough, but learning to adapt to my mom always working was tougher. I have witnessed us going through a patch of domestic violence on top of the financial burdens. I’ve seen my mom struggle, even to pay for club, but I’ve never seen her give up.

What type of college are you looking for?

I’d like to attend a college where I can make a name for Latina players. They aren’t as common in the college world and seeing players like Lexi Rodriguez inspire me to advocate for players that not only are considered short in height, but Latina and strong at heart.