Oswego East Co-Student Athlete of the Week

Volleyball players are known for their tenacity and competitive drive. The high-paced action is what junior Meghan Delaney loves most about the sport, allowing her to thrive in high pressure situations. Meghan’s dedication, work ethic, and fiery spirit are what make her this week’s Oswego East Co-Student Athlete of the Week.

Meghan’s love of volleyball began in the 5th grade, but really picked up when she began playing club volleyball in 7th grade. As a year- round volleyball player, Meghan’s skills have grown to the point where she plays a very integral part on the Lady Wolves’ team at East. Hearing Meghan speak, and seeing her play, only reinforces the notion that competition is what helps her thrive, and sets her apart from other players.

As one of the main cogs in the Wolves’ rotation, Meghan leads the team in both kills and aces playing the outside hitter position. As of last week, Meghan lead the team in points with 215, which meant roughly 30% of the teams total points funnel through her in some way. Head coach Adam Thurwell describes Meghan as, “In terms of volleyball skills, she is arguably our strongest front row player, arguably our best server, and a solid back row and defensive player.”

Meghan’s leadership serves not only her team, but her future. Meghan is determined to play volleyball at the Division 1 level, a goal she and her head coach believe is very much attainable. Meghan’s ability to improve on a consistent basis is what separates her from other players who also want to play in college. Meghan’s mother, Laurie Otey, has seen Meghan grow leaps and bounds since her freshmen year at East, with no signs of slowing down. “[Meghan] is always looking for feedback from coaches on what she can improve upon,” says Otey. She continues by adding, “[Meghan] works harder than most student athletes I see and I am grateful for her hard work ethic.”

Meghan’s work ethic doesn’t end on the gym floor, as she uses that competitive spirit and drive to help her succeed in the classroom. This bright junior has earned a 4.3 G.P.A., good enough to place her in the top 25% of students in a junior class of 622. Not only does Meghan want to play volleyball at the Division 1 level, she also plans on attending a university with a strong focus in nursing. Meghan’s Anatomy teacher, Robyn Mellas, says, “Meghan’s biggest strengths are her strong work ethic, determination, and her out-going nature.” Mellas goes on to say, “I think Meghan would make a great nurse. She is outgoing and friendly and I think she would make patients feel at ease. She is also detail oriented, which should help her thrive as a nurse.”

This rising junior is only scratching the surface of her potential. With almost two years left here at East, there is ample time for Meghan to write herself into the history books, and help lead her team to their first regional championship. More importantly than winning, Meghan’s goal for the team is to “come together and play as one.”

As a student who has benefited from her time here at East as a student and an athlete, Meghan understands the challenge that lays ahead for those future Wolves. She offers this advice, “Put yourself out there, and don’t be afraid to try new things and branch out.” We look forward to watching Meghan help lead the Lady Wolves to new heights, and being a leader so many younger students can admire.