Senior Concludes Waves Career in Optimist All-Star Volleyball Match

Ripley Hanson - Optimist All-Star

By Ripley and Kenney Hanson 

On December 8th, senior Ripley Hanson represented Sacramento Waldorf School on the South Small School team in the 36th Annual Optimist High School Girls All-Star Game.  The North team won 25-23, 22-25, 25-22, 26-24 at Capital Christian School. 

The teams consisted of seniors from 23 schools in the Sacramento area.  Hanson played in all four sets and was one of two setters on the team. 

What was your experience like with the Optimist All-Star Game? 

 "It was an incredible experience. Having the chance to meet people from all different schools and play on the South team was definitely a gift. At this level everyone knows their job on the court and how to do it, which made it a lot easier to play as a team in such a short time. I had never played in a gym that size with hundreds of people watching, I am so glad I got the chance." 

How did you feel representing SWS at the Optimist All Star Game? 

"It is always fun when people ask you what school you go to, and seeing their reaction as you try to explain Waldorf. I am very passionate about my school, and felt very proud to rep the waves jersey." 

How did you enjoy your SWS volleyball career? 

"Volleyball at SWS has always been an “unknown” sport. Volleyball has been a major part of my life and to have the opportunity to help grow the program in both the high school and middle school has been a great joy. I will never forget my sophomore year when the varsity team made playoffs for the first time since 2004. People began to notice us. And by my senior year, loud supportive fans filled all the stands in the gym." 

Any pieces of advice to future SWS Volleyball players? 

"Take it seriously. Volleyball was always a sport at our school that was never taken that seriously. But now that we have made a name for ourselves in league, work hard to keep it that way. Go out with Waves pride and show them what we are made of."