Emotions run high, the team is looking at the other side of the court; they stare at their opponents; at the players who seem much bigger than them; but then, they are motivated, their captain helps them to grow courage and strive for the win.

What captain Roy Powell does is what other captains, coaches, and family have done for him.

Powell who was born and raised in Hollister, Northern California initially played baseball.

With the motivation of old coaches however, he fell in love with volleyball during his freshman year in high school and has not stopped playing since.

Volleyball has shaped Powell to become not only a prankster, but also a positive and gregarious person.

“We would always pull pranks on people,” Powell said. “Like one time it was my senior year in high school, and we took my coaches phone, and we changed it (Language) to Chinese. She was not able to access her phone for days.”

Whether it was pulling pranks or singing, “Teardrops On My Guitar” by Taylor Swift, line by line with his whole team on road trip games, Powell has learned how to always remain with a positive attitude.

Powell’s facetious way of being is not a detriment, but on the contrary, a helpful characteristic that helps him to evade obstacles.

Despite having a great attitude, Powell, like anyone else, faces obstacles.

According to Powell, money along with not having his family by his side, is what makes it difficult for him.

With a “simple phone call” from home however, his day always seems to get better.

His mother’s love and encouragement drive him to want to obtain a brighter future.

“The most important thing for me is to show my mom that I will eventually become something,” Powell said. “So I’m doing everything I possibly can to become successful and help her out in the long run.”

Powell admits that his ultimate goal is to obtain his masters degree and head back home with his mother and the rest of his family where he hopes to one day coach his old high school team and take them to play against Mira Costa High School.

Powell’s qualities is recognized by everyone who knows him, including his coach, Richard Blount.

“Roy has a good head on his shoulders, whatever he chooses in life he will be a success,” coach Blount said. “I wish I had more players like Roy!”

Several of Roy’s teammates also value his presence.

“Roy is a great person on and off the court,” freshmen Tyler Sompa said. “One of the best captains I’ve ever had.”

Powell’s long time friend and teammate, Samusu Semo (Sam), also contributed by saying that throughout the years he has known Powell, Powell has been there to challenge him to be better, and that Powell “is a very easy guy that likes to make people laugh.”

Powell admits that he intends to mark a difference in other peoples lives just like how others have marked a difference in his life.

“I want to influence other kids like how they influenced me,” Powell said. “Because if it wasn’t for them I don’t know where I would be. I want to be that person to another kid.”