Volleyball Player Also Won Video Award

Patch Whiz Kid of the Week: Darian Henry, 15,

Accomplishment: This rising sophomore is an accomplished volleyball player who participated in the Happy Volley Tournament at Penn State University this spring for the Essex Volleyball Club team. The group was one point away from winning its division. Darian also won a third place award in the North Jersey Craftmman's Fair with a few classmates for a video they created for the Varsity Dinner.

Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness: Darian isn't only involved in volleyball. She also loves snowboarding and has been a member of the district's ski and snowboard club since the seventh grade. She plays the flute in the high school band and is involved in her family church, making confirmation in the fall and being an active member of the youth group. Darian also excels academically, making honor roll every quarter for the past three years. She plays volleyball for Westwood Jr./Sr. High School and likes to ice skate with friends at in Westwood.

Q&A with Darian:

• You're an accomplished volleyball player. How did you get involved in the sport? When did you start playing? What position do you play? What is your favorite part about it?
  I got involved because I just started seventh grade and it was the first year that I was allowed to try out for the sport. I play outside hitter and I like playing the sport because it's different than any other sport. I like playing with people my own age - we really are able to bond.
  
  
• How was the Penn State volleyball tournament? What do you like about competing? Was there a most memorable moment?
  The tournament was an amazing experience. I liked paying different teams from different states. The most memorable moment was the last match when we were sooooo close to winning first place. It was very intense.
  
  
• A passion of yours is snowboarding. How long have you been doing that and what do you like best about it?
  I've been snowboarding since the seventh grade when I joined the ski and snowboard club at school. I liked the rush that you get when you go down the mountain. It is a great feeling!
  
  
• You're also an honor roll student. With all your extracurricular activities, how do you find the time for homework and studying?
  With all of my extra curricular activities I usually do all my work after I get home and I manage to get all of it done before the next day. I don't feel comfortable with myself if I don't finish it and just feel the need to get it done as soon as possible.
  
  
• What do you want to do after high school and as a career?
  After high school, I definitely would like to attend college for at least four years. I know I would like to go somewhere relatively close to where my family lives now. I'm not really sure what I want to do as far as a career path, but I would like to explore as many options as I can through out the next few years in high school.