By Hayden Swope

Wichita Northwest’s Nina Mitchell was a first team all-league selection last season, as well as almost accumulating 100 blocks. The Grizzlies are more than happy to have Mitchell back for her senior year, and have big things in store for her. 

“This year I’d really like to end my high school career with 500 kills,” Mitchell said. “I’d also like to be Greater Wichita Athletic League first team hitter again, but also all-state first team as well. Lastly I just think being a better front row player on my team is important because hitting all around is new to me but will really take my game to another level so just really getting better at being a pin is really exciting.”

Mitchell’s biggest key to success was training over the offseason to get the greatest result out of her and her team. 

“I think my biggest thing that I knew I needed to work on this year was just getting stronger,” Mitchell said. “A big part of my game is shots and being faster than everyone but I needed to add a whole lot of power especially stepping into bigger shoes so I knew getting stronger and developing power was something I wanted to work on. Our program has started to lift three to four times a week and now we have a really good trainer and I’m definitely seeing more from myself and teammates.”

As her senior year flies by, Mitchell will have a big decision to make for her future, with great programs calling her name. 

“I do plan on playing volleyball in college,” Mitchell said. “I am currently deciding between three Division 1 programs, and should be committing to one of the three next week. Super excited and blessed. I plan to major in nursing and become a Labor and Delivery Nurse, God willing.”