For only the second time in school history, Palm Harbor University High School made it to the regional round of the playoffs in girls volleyball. The Lady Hurricanes did it with strong play from Senior Julia Angelo. Angelo has been battling an ACL injury this offseason. But, a change in her approach to the game will lead her team to even more success on the court.
“The little steps I have taken and the progress I’ve made has been very uplifting. And, the little victories are awesome. It’s really humbling to have the chance to come back”.
Angelo is known to be very intense and one who takes her craft seriously. So, Lady Canes Coach Dexter Rogers has had to tell Angelo to pump the brakes as she continues her recovery. But Rogers, who's coached Angelo in club and at Palm Harbor U the last four years, said he appreciates how the injury has changed her approach to the game.
“She’s learned to relax a lot. She used to get frustrated about one point, forget all of a sudden about the rest of the game, and let four and five points go by. Now, you see her encouraging others as she’s trying to battle back from her injury. So, she’s really leading by example”.
Angelo takes pride in leading the Lady Canes as Team Captain, and said she looks forward to her first time playing for Palm Harbor U with her little sister, Jessica. The sophomore has followed in her sister’s footsteps and will play Outside Hitter as well.
To see Angelo in action, click on the link.