Molly Robertson, only a sophomore, wins Max Preps PA Player of the Year! On the court, Robertson dominated the year, helping the volleyball team win their 8th straight PA State Championship. Additionally, Robertson also won the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Player of the Year. Congrats, Molly! NAEye interviewed Robertson to get a glimpse of what provides her with the edge:
Tell us about yourself! What grade are you in, what sport(s) do you play, and how long have you been involved in your sport(s)?
I’m in 10th grade and play volleyball and run track. I’ve played volleyball for 6 years and track for 3.
What’s your biggest accomplishment so far as an athlete?
My biggest accomplishment so far as an athlete is being named a MVP of the Under Armour Next Camp in Kansas City and Max Preps Pennsylvania player of the year.
What’s your favorite memory from playing your sport?
My favorite memory from sports is winning states with my best friends twice.
Do you have a pregame routine or ritual? (Any music, superstitions, or habits?)
I’m actually pretty superstitious, so I listen to the same playlist before every home game. I also always warmed up with Mack Jones (NA senior) in the same order of dynamics and stretches before every game. For playoff games, we all have a phrase we write on our stomachs; mine is Tigers/all.
What’s your go-to pregame meal or snack?
I always eat a pack of fruit snacks after the warm up for energy because my school coach banned gatorade and propel.
Who has inspired you most in your athletic journey?
My brother inspired me most because I always wanted to be like him growing up. He did every sport and activity, so I did too. He’s the main reason I got into volleyball. We are super competitive and even made a bet in elementary school for who would win a state championship first.
How do you prepare for a big game or competition?
I try not to think of it as a “big” or special game because in the end it’s just another time stepping out on the court. Before every game we play the same two songs in the locker room. If I’m ever really nervous or anxious about a game, I try to remember to play for my team. This takes off some of the pressure I put on myself because I’m a perfectionist.
What’s one thing about your sport that most people might not know or understand?
Most people don’t understand volleyball unless they’ve played or been to a game.
What are your goals moving forward in your sport?
I want to continue on and play volleyball in college.
When you’re not training or competing, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I like to hang out with friends when I’m free.
(Bonus question) If you could play any other sport for a day, what would it be and why?
I would play soccer for a day because I played my whole life until I had to quit for volleyball.
