Hadley McDonald, a senior at St. Joseph-Ogden High School, is making her mark on the volleyball program despite being born without a left hand. During recent practice sessions, the 17-year-old demonstrated her skills with powerful serves, precise hits, and defensive plays that showcase her abilities on the court. Her teammates and coaches view her abilities as simply part of who she is rather than defining her by any physical difference.
McDonald’s connection to SJ-O volleyball runs deep. Her mother, Abby McDonald, has coached the Spartans program for 19 seasons and compiled an impressive 445-135 record. Hadley attended her first youth volleyball camp at the school when she was just 4 years old and has been a fixture in the gymnasium ever since. Beyond volleyball, she has also pursued dance since age 2, describing it as her comfort place where she can express herself freely.
Now as a senior, McDonald is taking on a leadership role for the program. Last season, she recorded 226 digs, 114 kills, and 24 aces as she made the transition from spectator to player. Her teammates emphasize that they view her as simply another member of the team, united by a strong bond and shared work ethic. McDonald has expressed interest in returning to coach alongside her mother after college, hoping to continue the program’s tradition and raise her own family within the SJ-O volleyball community.
Growing up in St. Joseph has provided McDonald with a supportive community that has never made her feel limited by her physical difference. She credits this environment for her confidence and success, noting that her friends and peers have always accepted her completely.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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