Brooklyn Kuster’s love for volleyball was preceded by a love for basketball.
“My older brother played basketball, and I wanted to be just like him, so in second grade, I started playing basketball at the First Church of God. I quickly fell in love with basketball and started playing AAU,” the Sapulpa High School senior said. “Ultimately, that’s what led me to volleyball. My childhood best friend played on the same basketball team as me while she also played volleyball. After going to a couple of her tournaments, her and her mom inspired me to try out in seventh grade. . . Little did I know how much I would fall in love with the game to the point where I quit basketball to focus solely on volleyball.”
Kuster plays Libero for the Chieftains and has been a starter since her sophomore year. Her average day includes two hours of training. Last year, the Chieftains made the state tournament but were defeated in the quarterfinal game.
“My goal for this upcoming season is to enjoy every bit of it while I can! I hope to break records and get better to prepare myself for college volleyball! Also to make it to state again,” Kuster said. “This year, the team’s chemistry is the best it’s ever been. We have overcome a lot of adversity already due to girls graduating, transferring, injury or not returning for this season. That has brought us closer together!”
Last year, Kuster persevered through a career setback.
“I didn’t enjoy playing as much to the point where I didn’t want to play anymore,” Kuster said. “There were multiple hard practices for me to the point I would go home upset about my performance. I overcame this because of one of my teammates at the time. She always encouraged me and brought out the best of everything.”
As is the case for most athletes, playing volleyball has provided Kuster with several core memories.
“My favorite memory from last year was when coach Harp made a bet with us and lost. He had to wear a pink wig and a tutu for the entire day at a tournament,” Kuster said. “My highlight of last year was winning regionals and winning the Highway 97 Rivalry!”
Kuster believes firmly in community’s role in high school athletics. In a town like Sapulpa, fans should make their best effort to support its talented athletes.
“I feel like the more people that come and support a team, the more loved and appreciated the team will feel,” Kuster said. “Community support also helps me have a better performance because it gives me more confidence!”
Kuster considers her mom and dad her greatest role models.
“They have sacrificed so much for me to be able to play,” Kuster said. “On the court, my biggest role models are my teammates. They bring out the better in me. I don’t know what I would do without them.”
After high school, Kuster plans to study psychology while playing collegiate volleyball and hopes to become a neuropsychologist in the future.
“First off, I would love to give all the glory to God! Secondly, I want to thank all of my family for supporting me throughout the years! Lastly, I want to thank all of my friends, coaches, and teammates. I wouldn’t be the person I am without you guys,” Kuster said.
