Ozy Gamez is a senior at Sahuaro High School and a 4-year volleyball player. He first got into the beloved sport thanks to his family, and he got to watch professionals who inspired him to have fun and play seriously. Ozy is an Outside Hitter and a Defense Specialist. When asked what he enjoyed most about playing volleyball for Sahuaro, he said, “I enjoy having my teammates to play alongside me on the court, and being able to know they help me in my position.” His favorite memory is all the friends and teammates he has made throughout his four high school years.
The biggest challenge Ozy faced during his seasons was an injury he endured, and not believing he would still be able to play the Outside Hitter position. However, he was able to get right back to it and be a team captain for his senior year, continuing his bond with his teammates and strengthening their team chemistry. Knowing you’re up against tough teams can always be a bit intimidating, but for Ozy, it only motivates him more. Knowing the other team’s skill level helps him, alongside having people who care about him always there to support him. He shared that his pre-game superstitions include listening to music and getting in a good stretch – it helps get his adrenaline going before playing.
Being part of a team for four years is really important for a lot of student-athletes. They create strong bonds with fellow teammates and are impacted by coaches who will leave an impact on them for years after graduation. Ozy himself was his biggest impact, and his coaches? Alongside his supporters, Ozy, his coach, Mr. Wharam, and Coach Connor are the three main people who know what he did wrong in every situation and how much better he can be to prove himself. Balancing school, his sport, and his personal life is one thing he doesn’t worry about too much; “I plan accordingly to the things that are more important, and I don’t miss a thing.” The advice he gives to younger players just joining the boys volleyball program or who are having doubts about their journey is, “Keep your head up at all times, no matter what comes your way. You’ll always have people around you that have fun and make the team better, stick with them.”
Senior year is the time of remembrance, for an athlete who has devoted all of their four years of high school, little moments will stick out to them the most. Ozy says this season, the upcoming Salpointe match has been on his mind since the season began. “I know we have a team that can stand against them. And the amount of will we have on the team makes me excited for that game, and to see how we do.” Playing volleyball after graduation is not in the plans for Ozy, even though he wishes it were. “If only I were taller,” was his comment before ending with, “I will continue to love the sport and play with my friends.”
Come support Ozy alongside the other seniors and boys’ volleyball players at their senior night game, against Buena, on April 29th at 5:00 pm. Go Cougars!
