In the heart of Delmar, New York, a talent shines brightly in the world of volleyball. Tess Bartholomew, a 16-year-old Libero in the Class of 2026, has quickly made a name for herself within the sport. Recognized for her skills, she is currently listed on the JVA Watchlist for 2024, standing as one of the top three Liberos in New York State. But beyond her remarkable athletic prowess, Tess is a dedicated student with significant academic achievements and a passion for community.

Athletic Excellence and Recognition

Tess’s journey in volleyball started alongside her diverse athletic background, where she dabbled in various sports including soccer, swimming, basketball, gymnastics, lacrosse, and track and field. However, it was volleyball that captured her heart. The essence of teamwork and the vibrant community surrounding the sport resonated deeply with her. Volleyball, in many ways, became a defining aspect of her identity.

As a Libero, Tess plays a crucial role on the court, often regarded as the defensive backbone of her team. Her skills in passing and receiving serve are complemented by her ability to read the game, making her an invaluable player. Tess’s dedication to constantly improving her skills has propelled her into the spotlight, as she continues to excel at both the club and high school levels.

The accolades she has earned throughout her athletic career speak volumes about her commitment and skill. Being named to the JVA Watchlist certifies her as one of the promising young athletes in the sport, and her ranking among the top Liberos in New York State demonstrates her talent and hard work.

Scholastic Achievement

While Tess thrives on the volleyball court, she equally excels academically. With a commendable GPA of 4.0, she showcases a well-rounded dedication to her education. Her impressive academic performance is evidenced by her consistent placement on the High Honor Roll throughout her freshman and sophomore years of high school. Tess’s academic excellence was further acknowledged in middle school, where she maintained High Honor Roll status for all three years.

Her achievements haven’t gone unnoticed. In 2022, Tess received the President’s Education Award and the Principal’s Award, recognizing her commitment to scholarly excellence. Additionally, she was honored with a Certificate of Excellence for Outstanding Youth, showcasing her dedication not only to academia but also to her school and community.

Tess’s dual focus on academics and athletics reflects her belief in the importance of balance and hard work. She understands that both her academic and athletic pursuits are interconnected, each nurturing her skills, discipline, and resilience.

Community and Personal Growth

Tess’s love for volleyball extends beyond individual success. She speaks passionately about the community that the sport fosters. From the younger players just starting their journey at the age of six to adults still playing into their eighties, Tess believes volleyball transcends age and backgrounds, creating bonds that last a lifetime.

For Tess, the energy and camaraderie in volleyball are what keep her inspired. She has formed close friendships through the sport, meeting people who share her passion and drive. This sense of belonging not only fuels her motivation but also allows her to contribute positively to the atmosphere around her. Tess is committed to supporting others in their volleyball journeys, understanding the value of teamwork and collaboration that the sport embodies.

Tess’s reflections on her experiences highlight her maturity and understanding of the deeper aspects of athletic competition. She recognizes that success in volleyball is not solely defined by individual achievements but rather through collective effort and unity among team members. This perspective shapes her approach to both practice and competition, where she consistently emphasizes communication and teamwork.

Aspirations Beyond High School

Looking to the future, Tess aims to pursue her passion for volleyball at the collegiate level, specifically targeting Division I programs. Her aspirations reflect a strong desire to further develop her skills and compete against the best in the nation. While she acknowledges that she faces challenges associated with being from New York State—sometimes perceived as a less competitive region for volleyball talent—Tess remains undeterred, fully committed to her goal of playing at the next level.

Tess has a vision for her future, identifying institutions such as Ivy League schools—including Brown and Dartmouth—as her dream destinations. Other universities like Syracuse, Delaware, Elon, North Dakota, and Montana also pique her interest. This ambition not only illustrates her dedication to volleyball but also her desire to achieve a top-tier education that accompanies her athletic pursuits.

Despite the challenges she may encounter, Tess is fueled by a strong work ethic and resolve. Her unwavering passion for the sport and her commitment to self-improvement provide a solid foundation for her athletic journey. She is determined to carve out her path while rallying support and camaraderie from her community.

Conclusion

Tess Bartholomew epitomizes the essence of a dedicated athlete—balancing her academic responsibilities with her pursuit of excellence in volleyball. Her journey, marked by accolades, community contributions, and personal growth, positions her as a rising star in the sport. With aspirations to continue playing at a collegiate level, Tess represents the embodiment of hard work, passion, and the belief that teamwork makes the dream work.

As Tess continues her journey, she remains an inspiring figure not just for her peers but for younger athletes who aspire to make their mark in volleyball. Her commitment to the sport, her academic achievements, and her positive outlook on collaboration and community define her as much more than just a remarkable player; she is a role model for anyone who dreams of achieving greatness both on and off the court.