By Derrick Smith

***Photo Credit – Jay Lederman***

Playing a sport just requires that you show up to practice and show up on the game day and be ready to play. But to be an outstanding athlete at your sport, you have to put in a lot of extra work outside of practice and you have to sacrifice things you enjoy doing. Makyla Salcido says that she has put in a lot of hours of work and preparation but she feels like that time is paying off. 

“It has taken a ton of practice,” she said. “Whether it be lessons, school or competitive team practice, going to pass a ball against a wall and even watching volleyball on TV.  I feel like I have grown as a player and a person. I won the award for Most Heart when I was a freshman, and Most Improved my sophomore year. Last season, I received the award for Defensive Player of the Year.”

Makyla is a senior at Claremore High School. She is a defensive specialist and libero on the Lady Zebra’s volleyball team. She first played volleyball when she was in the fifth grade and she has loved and played the game ever since. 

Throughout her life, Salcido says that there have been many people that have had an influence on her life. But overall, she says that there have been three people that have made the biggest impact. 

“My parents have been my biggest role models,” she said. “They push me to be a better athlete and person.  They have always taken me to lessons, letting me play competitively, and supporting me all the way. Coach Macy is one of my favorites for so many reasons.  She started coaching me in 2017.  She has coached me at school and a couple of my club teams.  She has become such a great role model. She has been a great influence in my life.”

She has made many great memories over her career, but Makyla says that there is one moment that stands out as her favorite.

“We made it to the state volleyball tournament my sophomore year,” she stated. “It was great to make it there with all my teammates. It is something that I will never forget.”