Taylor Donohue

As a student-athlete, team captain, and committed member of my school community, I strive to lead with integrity, communication, and resilience both on and off the volleyball court. My experiences competing at a high level, serving as a multi-year captain, and representing Oliver Ames High School have shaped the leader I am today, one who values teamwork, accountability, and a positive culture above all else.

I began my varsity volleyball journey as the only freshman on the team, surrounded by upperclassmen who modeled maturity and leadership. That experience taught me early on that leadership is not defined by age, but by reliability, consistent effort, and the ability to elevate the people around you.

By my junior year, my teammates elected me captain, a responsibility I approached with pride and purpose. As captain, I have coordinated open gyms and summer leagues, led team discussions, supported teammates through challenges, and worked closely with my coaches to analyze performance and set goals for our program.

These roles strengthened my communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence in leading a group with different personalities and needs.

My leadership has also extended beyond the high school season. As captain of my club and regional teams, I have represented my peers at high-level tournaments, maintained high expectations for effort and attitude, and fostered an inclusive environment where every player feels valued.

Whether encouraging teammates in tough matches or helping younger players develop their skills, I aim to create a standard of positivity and growth.

Community involvement is equally important to me. I volunteer at middle school clinics, assist during practices for younger teams, and participate in multiple school clubs including Biology Club, Spanish Club, Healthcare Club, Random Acts of Kindness, and School on Wheels.

These roles have expanded my perspective, strengthened my time-management skills, and reminded me of the responsibility student-athletes have to represent their programs with character.

Across all these experiences, I’ve learned that leadership is not about being perfect, it’s about being present, supportive, and willing to do what the team needs most. I hold myself and my teammates accountable, embrace adversity with optimism, and work to create an environment where everyone feels confident giving their best effort.

My competitive drive pushes me to improve, but my compassion and communication are what help me connect with others and guide a team forward.

I am excited for the opportunity to continue developing my leadership through the Hockomock LEAP program. I hope to deepen my skills in mentorship, collaboration, and decision-making so that I can continue contributing to my community and carry these lessons with me long after high school.

Above all, I want to be a leader who empowers others, inspires positivity, and helps teams achieve their potential, both on the court and beyond.