Erin Gray, a fifth-year player on the women’s volleyball team from Virginia Beach, recently broke the all-time Averett University cumulative career digs record against Methodist University. However, this achievement is just one highlight in a career that has seen Gray become an integral part of the women’s volleyball program over the past five years. As a defensive specialist, she has amassed numerous accomplishments, including 1,000 digs against Greensboro University in 2022, 47 digs in a match against Ferrum University in 2023, all-time digs in the 25-point scoring era against Christopher Newport University in 2023, and 2,000 digs against Mary Washington in 2023. She has also been named ODAC Player of the Week multiple times. This summer, Gray and the other members of the class of 2024 decided to return for a fifth year to pursue a championship ring.
“On the court, my goals are to be the best leader and motivator I can be for my team, and to walk away with a ring because I know we can do it,” Gray said. “Off the court, my goal is to keep building our team chemistry and culture for those who come after me.”
Reflecting on her impressive achievements, it’s clear that Gray’s passion for volleyball runs deep. To fully understand her journey, we need to look back at how she first fell in love with the game and what inspired her to become the exceptional player and teammate she is today.
Gray’s volleyball journey began when she was just nine years old, joining a recreational league to give it a try. She quickly fell in love with the sport, and that passion grew over the years.
“As I got older and colleges started showing interest in me, I knew it was possible for me to play at the collegiate level,” Gray recalled.
Since returning to campus, Gray has balanced the responsibilities of being a student-athlete through effective time management and self-care, contributing to her overall success both on and off the court.
“I balance being a student-athlete by working ahead and making sure to stay on top of my responsibilities, so I do not fall behind,” Gray explained. “I take my rest days seriously to recover not only physically but mentally as well, to avoid burnout and give myself a break, allowing me to be at my full potential on the court and in the classroom.”
Gray also relies on her faith as a pillar of support for her mental health while navigating the challenges of sports and academics.
“I take care of my mental health by praying. More recently, I have grown in my faith and given all my problems to God,” Gray said. “I know He will give me the strength to get through anything.”
Gray is excited about her decision to return for a fifth year and chase a ring with her teammates. She feels confident in their abilities and her impact on the team this season.
“I am feeling good about my decision to come back and use my fifth year; we have a talented group of girls,” Gray stated. “Our chemistry is the best it has been in a long time.”
“I feel like I have impacted the team by being consistent in my position,” Gray added. “If I wasn’t consistent in my job, we would have a harder time finding success with our hitters.”
Continuing to discuss team dynamics, she emphasizes her confidence in this season, especially with a strong group of returners and a large cohort of freshmen working together toward a common goal.
In sports, breaking records often attracts a lot of attention, but for Gray, it’s simply part of her role and duty to her team.
“People always comment about me breaking records, and my answer is always that I’m just doing my job,” Gray said. “I think it’s awesome, and I’m proud of myself, but that just comes with the work I put in for my team.”
While gaining success at a rapid pace can boost an individual’s ego, Gray remains humble and modest throughout her achievements. She emphasizes the significant role her teammates play in her accomplishments and how they motivate her.
“I think having the mindset of doing it for my team has everything to do with my achievements,” Gray said. “Every day, I play for the person beside me to help them succeed as well.”
Gray’s consistency is evident in her achievements for both herself and her team. Her discipline, regardless of the circumstances, has helped her balance life on and off the court. As a true leader, her positive attitude significantly impacts both her and her team. As the season progresses, Gray’s leadership will be crucial in guiding everyone toward their shared goal of winning a ring.
