Varsity girls volleyball players make history

For the first time in girls’ volleyball, Caylin Caballero and Isabel Valle, senior varsity players, were recognized and inducted into  the 2024 Southern Section All-California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Team.

This distinction is given to outstanding student-athletes in the sports program. Players are nominated by head coaches and chosen by the Girls Volleyball Advisory Committee. About 12 position players from each division are then recognized for their exceptional skills with additional awards included such as Player of the Year and Coach of the Year.

On the team, Caballero plays outside hitter while Valle plays setter and opposite hitter. During games and practices, both frequently demonstrate perseverance and hard work, gaining the appreciation of fellow teammates and coaches. 

“On the court, if I see my teammates struggling, I try to support them and [reassure] them instead of yelling at them or degrading them,” Caballero said. “Our team is super connected. Our chemistry on [and] off the court [is] really good.”

Nominations were closed in October with the results being publicly announced on Dec. 9. Caballero and Valle were among the 13 players who were recognized in Division 6 and received certificates for their achievements.

“I was really happy because I felt like all my hard work had finally paid off,” Caballero said. “It’s pushed me to be better, whether it’s off the court or on the court, and continue to work hard and achieve more of my goals. It definitely hasn’t been a smooth ride to get to the point I am right now. I’ve been constantly working to get better at my skill each day.”

Throughout their years on the team, Caballero and Valle have dedicated themselves to maintaining good relationships with fellow teammates and guiding them through mental challenges. 

“Caylin and Isabel [are] passionate about what they do. Both of them have put in years and years of work. Their love and dedication contribute to the team’s success,” senior Ashley Salgado said. “I’m really proud of them both for earning this recognition. It’s a big deal, and they’ve worked hard to get there. I think the award motivates them to keep pushing and improving. It’s a reminder that their hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed.”

This prestigious recognition has motivated the players to continue to persevere in their volleyball journey and reflect on their efforts. Both found immense pride in this milestone and hope to grow from the experiences that shaped their abilities.

“I wanted to do it for my team because it’s my senior year,” Valle said. “[The recognition] is proof that I can keep playing and keep pushing through. It allowed me to be able to persevere even when it didn’t seem possible.”