Metea Valley’s libero, Caroline Candela, often stands out despite her height disadvantage among taller teammates. At 5-foot-2, the junior makes her presence known through her vocal energy and assertiveness. ‘I like to rule the court, be loud, aggressive, and go for every ball,’ she explained.
Candela, in her first varsity season, shares libero responsibilities with senior Sienna Bialek. She has excelled defensively, setting a high standard for the Mustangs, who hold an 11-14 record. Coach Dave Macdonald praised her performance, emphasizing her fearless approach. ‘She’s all over the place,’ Macdonald noted. ‘Her defense is reliable; both the defense and hitters trust her.’
Junior outside hitter Ishana Harish echoed this sentiment. ‘Her energy is the best on the court,’ Harish said. ‘She’s the loudest and always boosts the team’s morale, point after point.’
In their 25-11, 27-25 loss to Downers Grove North, Candela’s leadership shone. She motivated her teammates between sets, insisting they amplify their volume and aggression to prevent a repeat of the first set’s quiet performance. ‘Come in firing,’ she advised, urging them not to carry a losing mentality into the next set.
The Mustangs responded. Harish achieved a kill and a block, while senior Inaaya Hashwani followed up with an ace to equalize at 3-3. Candela, recording nine digs, three service points, and an ace, served three consecutive points to establish a 7-3 advantage, demonstrating tireless defense throughout.
‘She’s crucial to our communication on the court,’ Harish said. ‘Early on, we struggled, but with her, we’re much louder and more connected.’
Candela’s stellar performance came during a tough period, with the Mustangs enduring their fifth consecutive loss. Despite an early four-point lead, they narrowly tied the game twice after falling behind. ‘We have many younger players and haven’t been able to finish strongly,’ Candela admitted. But her determination remains unwavering.
Coach Macdonald appreciates Candela’s grit. ‘She plays defense with abandon, often diving and making saves despite injuries like a broken nail,’ he observed. Her enthusiasm isn’t dampened.
‘I love defense and serve receive,’ Candela shared. ‘I’m thrilled when we face powerful hitters.’ Candela’s passion for volleyball began after a stint in gymnastics and basketball. She discovered her true calling in seventh grade volleyball. ‘I love my teammates and the team aspect of volleyball, playing as one,’ she said.
Candela aspires to continue improving and to play volleyball long-term. ‘She has a next-level consistency,’ Coach Macdonald said. ‘It’s essential as the season progresses. I hope she keeps enhancing her game.’
Matt Le Cren is a freelance reporter.