“Coming to the Phenom Program has been unique in that I was given access to tools and resources for the mental side of volleyball. I attended sessions focused on building mental resiliency and completed a TAP test to find my strengths and areas for improvement.”

She then reflected on how she impacted matches physically. “Blocking is a very important part of volleyball, both defensively and for maintaining momentum. There’s nothing better than getting a stuff straight down.”

Her advice to younger players centered on staying connected to the game itself. “Don’t forget your love of the game. It will help you get through the inevitable ups and downs that come with competing.”

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

💪🏽 What’s something specific you’ve been working to add to your game this season, and why?
This season, I’ve been focused on strengthening my mental game. I’ve worked hard to bounce back quickly from mistakes and bring intentional energy to the court. These aren’t physical skills, but they’re essential to being the leader my team needs. I know my teammates look up to me, so I can’t get in my head or drop the energy. When I started owning this mindset, our team chemistry and performance took off. I want to keep building on that.

💡 How would you describe your role on the court, and what do you do to elevate the players around you?
My role on the court is to be a consistent player my teammates can rely on. I encourage others and do my best to make sure every single one of my touches positively impacts the team. Whether I’m swinging for a point or keeping a ball alive, I want to be the type of player that brings momentum and trust to the court.

🧠 In high-pressure moments, what’s your mindset and how do you stay composed?
In high-pressure moments, I remind myself that this is the sport I love. Even when the situation is intense, I ground myself by remembering how much joy the game brings me. I stay present by narrating the game in my head, which keeps me engaged no matter what’s happening. It helps quiet the overthinking and keeps me locked in, even when I’m not the one touching the ball.

🌟 Off the court, how would your coaches and teammates describe you, and what personal qualities do you bring to a team culture?
They’d say I’m someone they can always rely on. I bring a competitive drive, relentless work ethic, and the fire to win no matter what. Whether it’s a drill, a scrimmage, or a match, I’m always pushing to be the best and bring out the best in others. I’m the kind of teammate who is all in for the group and willing to do whatever it takes to win.

💥 What’s a fun fact about you that you’d want college coaches to know?
I’m a multi-sport athlete. I played club soccer for eight years, ski regularly with my family, and was on the varsity track team as a freshman. I helped win the Mission League Title. No matter the situation, I show up, step up, and give it everything I’ve got.

~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Sierra Hitchcock Sierra Hitchcock 5'11" | OH Notre Dame (SO) | 2028 CA | Outside Hitter | MVP – SoCal PrepDig Sophomore ID Camp (June 14, 2025, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA)
Selected by Coach Ashley Smith

Sierra Hitchcock Sierra Hitchcock 5'11" | OH Notre Dame (SO) | 2028 CA earned MVP honors at the SoCal PrepDig Sophomore ID Camp for her strong fundamentals, aggressive mentality, and all-around impact on the court. Selected by Coach Ashley Smith, Sierra stood out for her ability to perform at a high level in every rotation, making herself an asset both in the front row and the back.

She attacked with confidence, consistently hitting on top of the ball and adjusting to every set with ease. Whether swinging from out of system or passing in serve receive, Sierra brought intensity and reliability to her team. Her adaptability, paired with her technical execution, made her one of the most complete and dependable players in the gym. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Sierra Hitchcock Sierra Hitchcock 5'11" | OH Notre Dame (SO) | 2028 CA Named Top Performer at the PrepDig SoCal Sophomore ID Camp

Sierra Hitchcock Sierra Hitchcock 5'11" | OH Notre Dame (SO) | 2028 CA brings a versatile and deceptive offensive game to the court. She’s capable of attacking both cross-court and down the line, and her ability to disguise her arm swing keeps defenders on their heels and guessing with every approach.

Her serve receive is equally strong, anchored by a disciplined platform and consistent form. Sierra shows hustle in the back row, contributing to her team’s stability on both ends of the court.

Whether she’s scoring points or keeping plays alive, Sierra’s well-rounded game and smart execution make her a valuable asset and a player to keep on the radar. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247

Sierra Hitchcock Sierra Hitchcock 5'11" | OH Notre Dame (SO) | 2028 CA is a physical player with a smooth and powerful arm swing. She has a strong understanding of court spacing and uses it to her advantage, hitting at high points and placing her shots with precision. Her ability to control the ball allows her to execute a variety of attacks, keeping the defense on its heels.

Her well-rounded game extends beyond hitting—she is a smart and composed player who reads the game well. Whether in transition or on the attack, Sierra consistently makes plays that elevate her team’s performance. ~ Michelle Bamford @Coachable247