By Derrick Smith

There are people in all of our lives that we look up to because they are the kind of people that we want to be like. Sometimes these are people that are a part of our daily lives and other times they may be celebrities or professional athletes. Emma Strong has a few different role models in her life, all of whom she says she is very thankful for. 

“The biggest role model for my life would be Jesus,” she stated. “I want to live like him in every way and follow in his footsteps. Also, my parents because they have taught me to give my all no matter what I decide to do and to always believe in myself.” 

Strong is a junior at Ponca City High School. She plays libero and defensive specialist for the volleyball team. She began playing volleyball almost two years ago and she says it has taken a lot of hard work for her to become the volleyball player that she is today.
“To get to where I am today, it has taken a lot of time in the gym,” she said. “Also doing the extra reps and doing lessons. You will only be as good as the work you are willing to put in.”

Emma says that there is another person that has had a big influence on her life. 

“Coach Reiter has taught me a lot,” she said. “She has taught me to fully believe in myself. She has also shown me and my team that we can do anything that we put our minds and heart in.”

Throughout her career, Strong has made a lot of great memories with her teammates, both on and off the court. But she says that there is one milestone that stands out as her favorite.

“This year when I made varsity was the highlight of my career so far,” she said. “It felt really great to start to see my hard work pay off.”

Strong also plays club volleyball for the Rowdies Volleyball Club. Away from sports, she is a member of the S3 club.