Success isn’t achieved overnight—it’s something that’s derived from countless hours of training. Going into his third year at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, Blake Lockhart has already seen his share of success on and off the volleyball court.
Just by the numbers, Lockhart had a standout season during his sophomore year. Making 214 total kills, serving 59 aces, and blocking 55 balls, Lockhart kept pace with his teammates throughout the season. He also showed his athleticism by making 461 assists—more than anyone else on the team.
His ability to garner such impressive stats in his sophomore year was a feat. The athletic achievements he made during the season earned him the title of boys’ volleyball co-Most Valuable Player for the Los Padres League, along with Templeton High School senior Henri Cherry.
Of course, playing volleyball is by no means a solo effort. Lockhart assists a solid group of individuals each time he steps on the court.
“I have a really fun team, we’re always joking,” Lockhart said. “And they’re always supportive.”
He said that his teammates are the kind of people who make someone feel better after a bad shot by giving words of encouragement like, “You’ll get it next time.”
“I like the whole team sport dynamic,” Lockhart said.
Not only are his teammates supportive and fun, they’re also working on becoming better players during each and every practice. Lockhart could see the hard work paying off.
“I think we’re going to have great success in our league next year,” Lockhart said, explaining that the team has many returning players.
The young athlete is no stranger to the sport, having played volleyball since elementary school. Getting into the sport was only natural, considering his upbringing.
“My whole family is pretty athletic,” Lockhart said. “I have two older sisters who play.
“I played competitively in junior high and really loved it,” he continued.
Now, he plays a variety of positions in an even more competitive high school setting.
During his sophomore season, Lockhart found himself in the back row as the setter during a few rotations. Along with his blocking and striking duties in the front row, he excelled at setting as well as his usual positions.
“I had a fun year and thought it worked out pretty well with me setting,” Lockhart said.
With two more years as a Santa Ynez Pirate, Lockhart has plenty of time to continually hone his skill and the chance to meet even more success. Looking forward to the future, Lockhart is unsure of where he wants to go to school, but would consider somewhere like UCSB.
One thing is for sure: Regardless of where he goes, Lockhart wants volleyball to be a part of his college experience.
