Wheatley Girls Varsity Volleyball is more than just a team — it’s a family. Every year, over 40 girls try out, making volleyball one of the most competitive and exciting sports at Wheatley. Making the team isn’t just about skill; it’s about joining a community full of energy, friendship, and unforgettable memories. The varsity team has had another amazing season, coming close to an undefeated record with only one loss and continuing their streak of county championship appearances.
This success wouldn’t be possible without Coaches Christy Herring and Ryan Dooley. After Coach Lein had to step down, Coach Herring stepped up and has done more than just fill the spot — she’s pushed the team to be the best they’ve ever been. She motivates every player to work hard, support one another, and enjoy every practice and game. Coach Dooley brings his own energy and positivity, always helping players grow and keeping the team atmosphere fun and exciting.
Wheatley Girls Varsity Volleyball is proud of the family they’ve built and so thankful for all the support from fans, friends, and teachers who cheer them on every game
Here is what Shruti Singh, the team’s only senior, has to say:
Q: How would you describe the volleyball community right now?
Compared to the start of the season, I think we’ve become a lot closer. Towards the beginning, it was a bit clique-y but I think that has dissipated and I’m close with basically everyone on the team. I love that we had the ability to grow into one team and get to know each other individually.
Q: How would you describe the shift in the volleyball community between your freshmen year to now?
It’s kind of similar because when I started playing freshman year, our coach was also new. I think it kind of gave us a fresh start and new perspective to the sport. I’ve enjoyed returning to the comfort of the team but also to the new experiences each year.
Q: How has playing volleyball at Wheatley shaped your high school experience?
Volleyball is the only school sport I play and it has given me the amazing opportunity of belonging on a team. I’ve connected with so many different people in different grades and that wouldn’t have been possible without volleyball.
Q: What life skills has Wheatley volleyball given you?
It has taught me accountability and time management. I’ve learned how to be there for my teammates when they need it, but also how to work around practice times to get my work done. Having to work through volleyball commitments has increased my efficiency and focus.
Q: What’s the best thing about the team?
Everyone is very adaptable. In terms of volleyball, everyone is truly talented in every aspect and can change positions when necessary. Constantly changing volleyball positions has been a huge theme this year. Knowing that every girl on the team is talented and capable takes off a lot of the pressure when we have to make changes.
Q: What are the team’s main goals right now?
Winning county championships. Secretly, it’s just beating Oyster Bay.
Q: What can the Wheatley community do to support the team?
Pull up to our games please!
Q: What will you miss most about the program in college?
The community. Every single girl on the team is so sweet and caring and I will miss having such a sweet group of girls to rely on. I know I have my team forever, but college won’t be the same without practice with these girls after school.
My Experience:
Making the Varsity Volleyball team as a freshman was a blessing I never expected. Watching seniors come and go has taught me to appreciate every girl on this team for as long as I have them. I’m so thankful for the upperclassmen who guided me when I first joined — they taught me more than they’ll ever realize. Now that I’m an upperclassman myself, I feel the same gratitude for the freshmen, both on Varsity and JV. They bring so much energy and positivity to the program and make every practice brighter. Volleyball has become a community where I can truly be myself, and I know it would be the same for anyone who joins. Try out next season and become a part of the amazing community we’ve built.
Thank you to Shruti not only for this interview, but for her role as a big sister and role model for the team.