Freshman Gemma Hopkins did what most would believe is unachievable, playing for the Tomball varsity team and becoming an HJV 16 Elite (Houston Junior Varsity Athlete) in her first year of high school.
She wears No. 5 for Tomball.
The inspiration for Gemma’s endeavors begins with her siblings. Following in their footsteps, her sister also began the varsity team as a freshman and currently plays for Alabama. Her older brother is on the baseball team and is shooting for a scholarship to Texas A&M.
“They influenced me to compete and I owe so much for my success to my siblings and parents, they have supported me and I couldn’t do it without them,” Gemma said.
Whether they’re driving her to her practices, assisting her with homework, or just showing support her parents have been one of the main reasons that she keeps playing today. When she began her career as a volleyball enthusiast, they were her No. 1 fans and continue to be to this day.
Her success didn’t start this year. She’s been playing with girls older than her in the 16 Elite team for a while, and being on a team where most are seniors can turn out to be quite a culture shock.
“You have to elevate your way of thinking because you have to work so much harder to participate with people who have been playing the team with three or more years of experience,” Gemma said.
Now a member of a varsity squad that had a successful season and made it to the playoffs, maintaining a proper life balance can be difficult.
“The balance can be difficult at times, however, I often use lists to keep up with my volleyball and school expectations.”
Alongside this, Gemma volunteers for her community whenever she can. Gemma has always valued being a part of her community in whatever ways that are possible.
“Volleyball has always been a part of my life and something I’ve enjoyed,” she said. “My family started this journey for me and I want to be the one to continue it.”
