The EXACT International Trip: A Transformative Experience
A significant chapter in Joya's volleyball journey was her participation in the EXACT International Trip to Europe in July 2024. This trip provided Joya with the opportunity to play against and learn from international teams, greatly enriching her understanding of the game.
Joya found the first game of the trip against LVA particularly revealing. "The first game of the trip against LVA. I went in expecting a major difference in playing styles, but in reality, it was super similar. Only difference is the loudness. No matter who we played, they were on the quieter side, and celebrations weren’t as crazy as ours." This observation highlighted the subtle yet intriguing differences in volleyball culture between Europe and the United States.
Learning from International Interactions
Playing with and against athletes from different countries was a valuable learning experience for Joya. "These interactions opened up new views of volleyball. Even in America, things varied by state, but seeing even bigger changes and being able to see what it is like in Europe. Also, being able to play with girls from Canada and Germany forced me to adjust and open up to new standards and the game." These interactions broadened Joya’s perspective, allowing her to adapt to various playing styles and standards.
Considering New Future Possibilities
The trip to Europe significantly influenced Joya's future aspirations. "It opened my future up in general. I had never thought about going to play overseas when I got older, but now I consider it as an option." Experiencing the level of play and volleyball culture in Europe has sparked Joya's interest in pursuing opportunities abroad, expanding her horizons beyond the United States.
Memorable Experiences
One of the highlights of Joya’s trip was an unexpected 24-hour delay, which gave her an extra day to explore London. "The highlight of my trip was having a 24-hour delay. This allowed me to go see London for one more day. I feel like that extra day really made me realize the beauty of London and its culture!" This experience provided Joya with a deeper appreciation of the city's rich culture and history, adding a memorable dimension to her volleyball journey.
Future Aspirations and Personal Growth
Joya’s journey is marked by a clear determination to push her limits and achieve her goals. The experiences and lessons from the EXACT International Trip have reinforced her dedication to pursuing a future in volleyball at the highest levels.
As Joya continues to develop her skills and understanding of the game, she remains committed to working hard and learning from every opportunity. Her journey underscores the importance of setting ambitious goals, embracing new experiences, and striving for excellence.
Conclusion
Joya Hurey-Scott is more than just a talented volleyball player; she is a symbol of what can be achieved through embracing diversity, dedication, and a passion for the game. Her participation in the EXACT International Trip to Europe has been a transformative experience, providing her with the tools and inspiration to reach new heights in her volleyball career.
Joya’s story is a compelling narrative of personal and professional growth. Through her experiences and achievements, she embodies the mission of EXACT Rankings: to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of young athletes and elevate the narrative around youth sports. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating that with dedication, resilience, and a supportive community, anything is possible.
