This award is given to the individual that puts in the work and effort to improve and take their game to the next level. They are always looking for ways to get better and want to make an impact on the court. The award is voted on by their teammates and this year’s most improved player is Hollie Wheeler. Let’s take a look at her interview and what she has to say about winning this award!
Q: How do you feel about winning this award?
A: I feel very proud to have earned this award. I was nominated last year after just 2 months on the team, and when I lost, I told myself I would work hard to get it the next year. I know that every other candidate for this award has worked hard and their efforts shouldn’t go unnoticed.
Q: What moment or moments from this past season are you most proud of?
A: Overall, I’m most proud of how much I’ve changed since last season. Before, I had very little confidence doing anything. When I was left as the last player left multiple times, I didn’t know what to do. Now, I don’t even have to think about what to do in that situation. My coach just lets me do my thing and I don’t feel any pressure or stress from my team. I’ve been able to secure a good amount of catches as the last player left, and I’ve learned to survive and draw out the clock.
Q: What skills do you hope to continue focusing on? Any new skills you want to learn?
A: I want to keep up on my ability to catch. I love the satisfaction when it just sticks and the team just lights up with excitement. I want to improve my throwing and pump fakes that make people fall over like my captain, Dylan, can do. I’d like both me and my team to work on dropping to catch since there’s a lot of weak resets that can be an easy catch rather than a block.
Q: What was your favorite moment from this past season?
A: I think one of my favorite moments this past season was my 6 catches and a team catch at UNL. I believe it was technically my 5th tournament ever and I completely surprised myself. It marked a turning point in my confidence that helped me progress so much the rest of the season. Feeling how excited my team was after each catch and watching back the footage to see my coach enthusiastically clapping really cemented how much I enjoy being a part of this team.
Q: Do you have any plans to continue playing Dodgeball in the future?
A: Of course, I don’t think I could ever leave this team prematurely. I have plans to play in some NDA tournaments in the summer and I’m sure I’ll be back after I graduate. But until then, I’m not done improving. Thank you again to my team for voting me most improved this year!
