Mulvane High School senior Rachael Langholz has found more than a sport in volleyball. For Langholz, the game has created a support system, taught resilience and given her a chance to contribute to something beyond herself.
“I enjoy having a built in family, I love being a part of something bigger than just myself and always having someone to rely on,” Langholz said.
That sense of belonging is reflected in what she appreciates most about her teammates. “What i love most about my team is how we always have fun, and never let anything get to us,” she said.
Langholz draws inspiration from volleyball player Andi Jackson, particularly because of Jackson’s approach when things do not go as planned. “Someone that inspires me is Andi Jackson, because she never gets down even if she makes a mistake playing volleyball, she never herself getting down,” Langholz said.
Her own experience in athletics has reinforced the value of that mindset. “Athletics has taught me that not everything is going to go your way all the time, but if you keep a positive outlook, everything will be okay,” she said.
As a server, Langholz prefers the jump serve. The skill did not come immediately, but the transition became an important part of her development.
“I love jump serve, it took me so long to get my serve, in seventh grade i was still doing my underhand, and then 8th grade year i went straight to my jump serve, and it made it so much easier to perfect it,” Langholz said.
She also recognizes teammates who have supported her along the way. “The teammate that had left the biggest impression on me was one of my club teamates Emersyn Preutt-Shea, and I love her so much, she was always there for me on the court even if i was having a rough day,” Langholz said.
Away from the court, Langholz enjoys science and remembers Mrs. Heersche, her eighth-grade English teacher, as a favorite. She is involved in National Honor Society and student council, where she takes part in service projects and school activities.
When she has free time, Langholz likes being with friends and family, shopping, getting her nails done and catching up on sleep. After games or events, she has a familiar hometown stop in mind: Taco Bell.
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