Athlete of the Week: Maria Soscia

Last season, Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School sophomore setter Maria Soscia helped lead the Lady Cougars to their first district title since 2004 and earn a landmark victory over powerhouse Venice High. Describing herself as a natural-born leader and vocal presence on the court, Soscia hopes to see continued success this season.

When did you first start playing volleyball?
I started taking lessons in third grade, and I started playing club in fifth grade, so I’ve been playing for a while.

How did you first get involved?
My school coach told my sister (Sarah) she should play, and we started at about the same time. She was in fifth grade, and I was in third.

What was it like to play alongside your sister, Sarah, for the first time last season?
We had played together before in club, but this was totally different. It was really cool. We don’t really think of each other as sisters on the court, but we play well together.

What has been your most memorable moment as a player?
Making varsity as a freshman was pretty big. Also, beating Venice for the first time. We just had euphoria, like, “Did that really happen?” We were on a high for like a week. We still talk about it.

What are you most looking forward to this season?
I’m excited to finish playing my last season with my sister and all the other seniors I’ve known for a while. It would be cool to beat Venice again and lead the team to districts.

What aspect of the game do you find most difficult?
The mental part. It’s hard when I make a mistake, because I’m a perfectionist, but I try to stay up, because everyone makes mistakes.

What do you think is the most rewarding part of the sport?
When you’re playing so well, it feels like nothing can stop you. It’s the best feeling.

What do you think is your strongest point as a player?
My ability to be a leader. I’m really loud on the court. I like to stay focused and win, and the team knows that. I also think I’m pretty consistent in my fundamentals.

What’s the best sports-related advice you’ve ever received?
You have to play for yourself and your teammates and no one else. I always try to keep that in mind.