Volleyball has been around for over 100 years, invented by William G. Morgan of Holyoke in 1895. For decades it was simply a recreational pastime, played at picnics and barbecues until about the 1970’s when it began to turn into a competitive sport. In the 1990’s, its popularity began to really rise, particularly for women. Today, volleyball is played by many people and is accessible to all ages. It’s played recreationally and competitively and can be played on many surfaces such as indoor courts, sand, and grass. I started playing volleyball in grade 6, when I joined the volleyball club. I wasn’t very serious about it and missed lots of practices. I became way more dedicated in grade 7 and especially grade 8, and really started to love the sport. I even tried out for a club last year and got in! That was my first year playing volleyball competitively in a club,  this year is my second. There are lots of reasons why I’m passionate about volleyball, but really, it’s just so fun for me. I love the teamwork, relying on your team to win together, and how competitive the game is. Aside from playing competitively, I also enjoy playing with my friends and family. It’s very popular among my family friends, and we play a lot at picnics. Volleyball is one of my favourite hobbies, and definitely my favourite sport. I’m really looking forward to playing in club this year again, and hopefully next school year as well!