Nicolet National Senior Spotlight

Parent’s names: Chet and Sandy Morton
Siblings: Hannah and Lily Morton
Position or events: Setter/libero

At what age did you start playing your sport(s)?
Sixth grade.

Who introduced you to your sport(s)?
Since neither of my sisters played volleyball, and I always enjoyed watching the “big kids” play when I was younger, that inspired me to give it a try because I couldn’t wait to be like them.

What is your favorite sport?
Volleyball.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year?

The amount of work and the difficulty of classes in my senior year have definitely changed drastically since freshman year. I always remember to make time for both academics and sports because they are both very important to me.

What is your favorite part about your sport(s)? What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long?
My favorite part about volleyball is the atmosphere that goes on in the gym. The Kewaunee student section keeps the adrenaline going and really gets us players excited. The relationships I’ve built with my teammates on and off the court and my parents’ unconditional support are what have made me stick with volleyball for this long.

Is there a professional athlete you look up to? If so, who?
I look up to Harper Murray.

What would you say is your biggest asset on the court/field?
I’d say my biggest asset on the court is being able to give my full effort all the time, no matter if we’re losing or winning.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
My most memorable experience in high school sports so far would have to be the bond and camaraderie built during long bus rides and tough practices/games with teammates.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?

It is definitely a bittersweet feeling. The shift in confidence since freshman year to now is crazy to look back at, going from being nervous, just trying to keep up with older players and avoid mistakes, to becoming one of those older players and seeing myself in the younger girls; it certainly creates such a nostalgic feeling for me. But knowing that all of the practices, early mornings and conditioning have paid off in the end makes everything worth it.

Do you have any pre-game rituals/routines/superstitions?
Before every home game, the whole team will go to Bloom Coffee House, and then get together at someone’s house for team bonding time.

Do you take any extra steps to prepare for a big game or event, outside of regular training?
For a big game, I like to watch film of either our own or the team we’re about to play, and mentally/physically prepare myself.

What has been your favorite experience with being a senior this year?
My favorite experience with being a senior this year has been growing new friendships with my teammates, and knowing that the hard work I’ve put in throughout the years will pay off in the end.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to?
I’d like to thank all of my past and current coaches, and my teammate London Karnopp. She is always able to make the team laugh and push me to be a better player with her positive energy.

Any hobbies outside of sports?

I love spending time with family and friends, shopping and taking my dogs on walks.

Favorite food?
Mexican food.

Favorite movie/TV show?
“Desperate Housewives” or “Castle.”

Future plans? (college, major, career, etc.)
After high school, I plan to attend Oshkosh for nursing.