Bailey Steele of Bixby has played school and club volleyball since she was in the seventh grade. Now a senior at Bixby High School and a member of the varsity team, Steele is focused on making the most of every opportunity she has to step onto the court.
“I am more than stoked for this season. I intend to make every moment count. No matter the circumstances of the game I am giving it my all. I want to set an example and create an environment that I can feel proud leaving as my legacy,” said Steele.
The family environment with the volleyball team is a big reason these athletes are excited to go to work. Steele said they are truly like a family at Bixby.
“My teammates have become my family over my time in high school. That may seem cliché, but there really isn’t a better word to describe it. Working as hard for as many hours as we do together bonds you in a way that just doesn’t compare,” said Steele. “I played for a private school in middle school and there was a huge change in environment when I came to Bixby. The spirit and pride that Bixby has is simply unmatched. The best memory I have of the vibrant Spartan energy was last year when the team came in early before our first game of the season and was reminded what a Spartan truly is. That was the most pumped I have ever felt. We played harder in that game than we ever have and carried that energy throughout the season. I will forever be proud to be a Spartan.”
The senior is looking forward to playing and representing her school this year, but once the year comes to an end, Steele said she plans on attending Oklahoma State University.
“I have always had a passion for science and hope to aspire to follow in my dad’s footsteps and attend medical school and spend the rest of my life using my knowledge to help others,” said Steele.
Steele works just as hard or harder in the classroom.
“Academics have always been a top priority for me. So much so that I have become a tutor to help my other classmates find the same success. Science has always been my passion and this year my anatomy teacher, Mr. Hunter, as really solidified that for me. He told me daily the potential he saw in me and has inspired my future more than he may have realized,” said Steele.
The biggest influence in her life is her father.
“His work ethic and kindness has been a huge inspiration for me. He was an amazing athlete in high school and worked to put himself through medical school and is the most positive person I know. I will consider myself successful if I can mimic even a fraction of his character,” said Steele.