IBSports Volleyball Magazine April 2025

Alyssa Pitt: Pursuing Excellence on and off the Court Meet Alyssa Pitt – a former collegiate volleyball player who has transitioned from the court to a dedicated coach. With years of playing experience under her belt, she now focuses on helping her players develop their skills, but she’s not done with the game herself! Alyssa still hits the gym and stays active by playing recreationally, so she can keep refining her own skills and continue learning the game she loves. She brings a unique blend of personal experience and coaching expertise, emphasizing both the fundamentals and the mental side of the game. Her passion for volleyball shines through in everything she does, both on and off the court! Alyssa’s volleyball journey began in fourth grade when she joined a recreational…

At 51 years old, Yusuf Dikeç, an air pistol shooter, finally stood on the Olympic podium with a silver medal. This triumph wasn’t a result of just one competition. It was the culmination of years of consistency, resilience, and immense mental toughness. Yusuf’s journey began in 2008, when he first competed in the Olympics. Despite his efforts, he wasn’t on the podium. He tried again in 2016, but once more, victory slipped through his fingers. For many, these setbacks would have been the end of the road. But not Yusuf. He was back on the Olympic stage for the third time, in Paris 2024. This time, he stood out - not because of the latest gear, but because he competed with no ear protection, no specialized lenses, and no fancy…

In sports, where physical prowess meets mental toughness, the role of faith can be a grounding force during moments of vulnerability and self-doubt. Athletes often face pressure to perform at their best, and when emotions run high, they may get inside their own heads, turning into a cycle of whininess and a constant need for reassurance. While it is natural for any individual to experience moments of fragility, sometimes this behavior crosses a line where it becomes disruptive not just to the individual’s performance but to team morale as well. Faith teaches us about resilience, personal responsibility, and the value of perseverance. In tough times, leaning on spiritual principles can offer the much-needed stability to face adversity. Yet, when emotional struggles evolve into attention-seeking behaviors and hinder an athlete’s progress,…