On Wednesday, November 9th, Brooke Bowers, senior, signed to Loyola Marymount University to play D1 beach volleyball. 

Brooke first started playing volleyball when she was 8 years old at PSA, but she didn’t discover her love for beach volleyball until she was 12, and she has been playing it ever since. She now has the opportunity to continue to play the sport she loves in college with a top-ranked program at a school that fits her perfectly. 

“Other than LMU’s gorgeous campus, the coaches are some of the best I have ever seen,” said Bowers. “The way Coach Mayer and Coach Angie interact with the players made me fall in love with the program. I have always wanted to live on the West Coast so this amazing program truly fits me.”

Not only is LMU’s beach volleyball program ranked 4th in the NCAA, but the school itself is very successful academically and is listed at #77 out of 443 national universities according to US News and World Report collegiate rankings.

“In college, I plan to major in either pre-med or English,” said Bowers. “After college, I hope to become an emergency room nurse or a teacher.”

In today’s society, current and aspiring college athletes often face challenges with mental health and body image. In 7th grade, Brooke struggled with a severe eating disorder that impacted both her athletic and personal life. 

“Not only was this mentally and physically draining,” said Bowers, “but it stunted my growth severely. I put my family through a lot but I learned through my struggle.”

Despite this challenge in her life, Brooke’s determination and hard work allowed her to overcome this challenge and become an extremely successful beach volleyball player. Brooke would like to thank her family for their constant support throughout her volleyball career, especially her younger sister, Blaire, who she shared the court with the past season. 

“Being able to look across the court and see my best friend is truly a rare opportunity that I am so thankful for,” said Bowers.

Although Brooke’s passion lies with beach volleyball, she has played a major role on the Plano West Volleyball team as well. During her first year on varsity, Brooke totaled up 435 digs and 111 assists, earning herself a 1st Team All-District title.

“I would like to thank Coach Phillips because I have honestly never loved indoor volleyball like I do now,” said Bowers. “He has completely changed my perspective on the game, and I respect him greatly as both a coach and a person.”

During her time at Plano West, Brooke has served as a role model to younger athletes and has made a lasting impact on the program for years to come!

“I hope to be remembered as someone who lifted the team up and put a smile on your face.”