Maroon All-Stars: Talia Plummer

As the all-section, all-league, and League Player of the Year, as well as Varsity Volleyball Co-Captain, Talia Plummer ’11 is undeniably a very important part of the volleyball at SHS.  The volleyball team had an outstanding season, with a record of nine wins and only one loss, due in part to Plummer’s outstanding contributions. Her personal record was 249 kills, 31 digs, and 82 blocks.  Graduating this year, her fall season was her second year on Varsity.

Plummer’s initial involvement has an unusual source.  “To be honest, I saw a lot of tall girls playing [volleyball],” said Plummer, “so then I just assumed — because I am really tall — that I could probably do well.” So while her inspiration might have been unconventional, she worked hard to contribute to her team. “I joined the Scarsdale Club team,” said Plummer. “We played through the spring season. It was a lot of work, but it was fun. And I also went to a [volleyball] camp over the summer.” Plummer worked  hard to develop her skills and would  like to continue to do so after high school. “In college I want to play [volleyball] on a club team,” said Plummer.

As she has grown as a player, Plummer had been able to single out the things that make her special on the team. “I think my greatest strength is that I am a really competitive person and so that has helped me a lot,” said Plummer. “But I also get down on myself, so if I lose a point, then I get really upset, and sometimes that affects me later on.” In addition to playing hard, Plummer also brings a great deal of other qualities onto the court with her. “Talia has a lot of enthusiasm and desire to win – her relentless pursuit of the kill helped us in close situations,” said Varsity volleyball Coach and social studies teacher Ann-Marie Nee. “Losing is simply not an option for Talia.”

For all of her skills, Plummer has warranted much respect from her teammates. “She brings confidence and talent to the team,” said Libby Gross ’12. “No one [hits the ball] like she does, and it’s so great to see someone who has confidence in herself and her abilities without being  arrogant.” In addition to her athleticism on the court,, Plummer is also skilled at bringing the team together. “She adds so much to the team,” said Alexandra Levine ’12. “She brings everyone together after each play and makes sure everyone is always involved.”

The cohesiveness and closeness of the team made this past season enjoyable for Plummer. “The team itself was my favorite part,” she said. “I know we played really well and won a lot of games, but everyone was really close, and it was really easy just to concentrate on the game and not on any gossip or drama.” The spirit of this team also radiated into their lives after the games were done.

The camaraderie of the team was just as strong when they weren’t at practices and games. “Off the court, it is just as much fun spending time with her,” said Gross. “She makes the team laugh and is always fun and entertaining to be around.” “She brings a lot of enthusiasm to the team,” added Greta Miconi ’12. “Even if we are losing she makes everyone happy and tells us that we can do it.”

The team is definitely going to miss Plummer’s skill and enthusiasm next season. “Talia is really special to everyone on the team,” said Gross. “She’s a natural leader. Since we’re often on the court together, she’s been able to help me out a lot by not letting me get down on myself and keeping the team together.” Plummer certainly made an impact this season. “I know I speak for my whole team when we say we will all miss her next season,” said Levine. Talia Plummer was, without a doubt, a valuable asset to the team.