By Ken Hansard
Wichita Heights junior Zorianna Turner, an outside hitter for the Falcons, has a unique perspective on the game that helps her keep competition fresh and enjoyable, “I have come to realize that I’m not playing with the same people every game or every year. Day to day, people change and develop their skills, so it’s like I’m stepping onto the court with different people every time. Different passers, different attackers, and different setters. We are all growing our skills together, and that is what matters most.”
It’s good that Turner can have such a mature outlook. There was a time when her view of things was not so upbeat, “I used to take things too seriously and get frustrated, especially with my passing. Then, someone told me to lighten up and have fun. Since then, I’ve focused on enjoying the game and not overthinking, and it’s made all the difference. I feel more confident on the court now, and my passing game has improved as a result.”
Now, Turner, who was recently named our VYPE poll winner in volleyball, and who was recognized last season as an Honorable Mention All-League nominee, is ready to pass along some of that wisdom to her teammates, “I’m looking forward to growing as a team and becoming a leader. I’m looking to develop not only my skills, but also my ability to be a team leader and captain. I carry the mindset of the team. I emit an energy and a persona that is contagious. I want my team to look at me and catch the spirit to battle in every game.”
Zorianna says that her goals for this season are to be named first or second team City League and state. She also hopes she can help the Falcons improve upon their record from last year, when they were hit hard by injuries. She likes what she has seen so far this season, “I’ve already achieved 61 digs this season in just ten games! That means a lot to me because it reflects the hard work I’ve put in, practicing my digging and passing skills. It’s really rewarding to see this dedication paying off! We may not win every game, but as a new team with a new coach, we are working great together. We gave the second ranked team in the state, Andover Central, a tough challenge, losing the first set 23-25 and then playing them tight again in the second set.” It should be exciting to see how the Falcons progress this season under new leadership – both from a new coach and from Turner.
When she is not on the volleyball court, Zorianna is well-rounded and active in her school’s culture. She participates in a Peer Leaders program for Heights. She is in the Multi-Cultural Club, among others. She loves doing freelance photography. Zorianna also understands that the “student” part of student-athlete is important. She boasts a 3.87 GPA, and she is a member of the prestigious National Honors Society.
Zorianna’s plan for after graduation is to go to college, hopefully on scholarship. She would like to study Atmospheric Sciences, and specifically Meteorology. She would also like to minor in photography. Zorianna shows great wisdom with her career plans, as well, and she says, “I just want to take the things that I enjoy and make them my professional hobby.” Words that everyone should live by.
