Position: Middle

Keonnah Brown

Keonnah Brown – Athlete Biography

Keonnah Brown is a dedicated and driven student-athlete from Puyallup, Washington, who has built a strong foundation both on and off the volleyball court. A graduate of Puyallup High School, Keonnah has spent the past five years developing her skills in volleyball, earning recognition as a two-time team captain—a testament to her leadership, work ethic, and commitment to her teammates.

Known for her positive energy and resilience, Keonnah values the relationships and memories formed through the sport just as much as the competition itself. Some of her most memorable experiences include bonding with teammates through fun moments like making TikToks, as well as overcoming adversity—such as battling through multiple ankle injuries during tournaments. These experiences have shaped her into a stronger and more determined athlete.

Beyond athletics, Keonnah is equally accomplished in academics and the arts. She is a recipient of Pathway Honors, having completed over 360 hours of human services coursework while maintaining a B average or higher. In addition, she earned an Honors Cord in Visual Arts after completing four semesters with strong academic performance. Her passion for helping others has guided her future plans, as she is committed to attending Biola University, where she will pursue a degree in Nursing.

Keonnah draws inspiration from her parents, whom she describes as hardworking, caring, and supportive role models. Their influence has helped shape her character and fueled her drive to succeed. She lives by the quote, “A trophy carries dust, memories last forever” by Mary Lou Retton, reflecting her belief in cherishing experiences and relationships above accolades.

A lover of the color purple and the uplifting song “So So Good” by Phil Wickham, Keonnah brings joy and positivity into everything she does. She also takes pride in her heritage, sharing that she is half Jamaican, and enjoys expressing her thoughtfulness by giving meaningful gifts to others.

Looking ahead, Keonnah envisions herself graduating from college and beginning a fulfilling career in healthcare. She hopes to continue making a difference in people’s lives both on and off the court.

To younger athletes who look up to her, Keonnah offers this advice: stay positive, be confident, push yourself and your teammates, and always support one another. She credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her parents and the guidance of her coaches, expressing deep gratitude for the impact they’ve had on her journey.

Keonnah Brown’s story is one of perseverance, leadership, and heart—a student-athlete who exemplifies what it means to grow, compete, and uplift those around her.

Eliana Hicks

Eliana Hicks – Athlete Biography

Eliana Hicks is a dedicated and hardworking student-athlete from Kent, Washington, currently attending Bonney Lake High School. With plans to pursue a degree in Business, Eliana is preparing for the next chapter of her academic and athletic journey, with her college decision still ahead.

Eliana has built a strong foundation in volleyball through five years of club experience, demonstrating commitment, perseverance, and a genuine love for the game. Throughout her career, she has balanced the demands of academics and athletics, showing discipline and maturity both on and off the court.

One of Eliana’s most memorable volleyball experiences highlights what the sport truly means to her—connection and camaraderie. She fondly recalls a tournament trip to Spokane, where she and her teammates bonded by exploring the hotel, sharing laughs, and enjoying ice cream together. Moments like these have made volleyball a meaningful and memorable part of her life.

Outside of volleyball, Eliana takes pride in successfully managing her school responsibilities alongside her athletic commitments. She also has a strong passion for art and psychology, enjoying creative expression and learning about how people think and understand the world around them.

Eliana draws inspiration from her parents, who have consistently worked hard to provide for her and support her dreams. Their resilience and dedication motivate her to keep pushing forward no matter the challenges she faces.

She lives by the quote, “Life becomes easier when you learn to accept what you cannot control,” and finds energy and confidence in the song “The Night Is Still Young” by Nicki Minaj. Known for her positive outlook, she encourages younger athletes to take advantage of every opportunity, be kind to themselves, and most importantly—have fun.

Looking toward the future, Eliana envisions herself working in esthetics while pursuing her long-term goal of owning her own business, combining her interest in business with her passion for creativity and helping others feel confident.

Eliana is deeply grateful for the support system that has guided her throughout her journey. She credits her parents for always being there through every practice, tournament, and milestone. She also extends special thanks to her coaches, Dani and Rodney, for their encouragement, belief in her, and for making volleyball a joyful and rewarding experience.

Favorite Color: Red

Gianna Crossley

Athlete Biography: Gianna Crossley

Name: Gianna Crossley
High School: Emerald Ridge High School
Hometown: Puyallup, Washington
Intended Field of Study: Business
College Commitment: N/A

Gianna Crossley is a dedicated student-athlete from Puyallup, Washington, currently attending Emerald Ridge High School. With a strong interest in pursuing a future in business, Gianna balances her academic goals with her passion for volleyball, demonstrating resilience, commitment, and personal growth both on and off the court.

Athletic Journey & Accomplishments

Gianna’s volleyball journey is defined by perseverance and determination. While she may not measure success solely through accolades or statistics, her greatest accomplishment comes from her ability to overcome challenges and continue pushing forward even during difficult times. Her commitment to the sport, despite moments of doubt, highlights her mental toughness and dedication to personal growth.

Memorable Moments

Some of Gianna’s most cherished volleyball experiences involve traveling with teammates, family, and friends. These moments have helped shape her love for the game, creating lasting memories and strengthening relationships both on and off the court.

Personal Achievements

While Gianna has focused heavily on her volleyball journey, her development as a resilient and determined individual stands out as a key personal achievement. Her ability to stay committed and build character through sport reflects her strong work ethic and positive mindset.

Favorites & Inspirations

  • Favorite Color: Green
  • Inspirational Figure: Her mom

Gianna credits her mother as her greatest inspiration, describing her as the strongest person she knows and her best friend. This close relationship serves as a major source of motivation in both her life and athletic journey.

Gianna Crossley embodies perseverance, heart, and dedication. Her story is one of resilience—demonstrating that success is not only measured in wins and awards, but also in the strength to keep going. With her grounded mindset and ambition to pursue a business career, Gianna’s future is full of potential both on and beyond the court.

Rasheeda Gordon

Rasheeda Gordon | Sports Recruits

About Me

The people that inspire me the most are my grandmother and mom because of how I’ve seen them live and overcome certain situations and beat their unfortunate circumstances, whether or not they were the ones who put themselves in it, they always managed to come out successful.  Something most people don’t know about me is that I really like to sing and would consider doing it in the future with more vocal training.  Five years from now, I see myself getting my degrees in psychology, making a good amount of money, trying if I haven’t already to get my life as stable as possible, financially, mentally, educationally, etc.   The people I want to thank most for supporting me is my teammates, even when the coaches aren’t there for you mentally, the right teammates will be and that’s more than enough.

  • High School: Spanaway Lake
  • Hometown: Fredrickson/Tacoma, WA
  • College Commitment: Tacoma Community College
  • Degree Pursuing: Psychology
  • Years at PSVBA: 1

Volleyball Accomplishments:

  • Jamaica High School League Champs (2022)
  • Jamaica High School League 2nd Place (2023)

Non-Volleyball Accomplishments:

  • Passed all my subjects in Jamaica

MY FAVORITES

“How you do anything is how you do everything” – T. Harv Eker

  • Volleyball Memories: Playing in a different parish (Mandeville) back in Jamaica with my friends.
  • Song: Better by Jessica Reedy
  • Color: Emerald/Sage Green

Advice I would give to younger players is “There’s always room for improvement; nothing is impossible and remember how you do anything is how you do everything.”

Lauren Hutchinson

Lauren Hutchinson | Sports Recruits

About Me

I’m inspired by Bruce Lee; I like his life philosophy!  Something most people don’t know about me is that I paint a lot and I’m scared of butterflies!  In five years, I see myself going to Medical School and getting a hairless cat and a Doberman.  I want to thank my Parents and all of the coaches at Puget Sound who have helped me and supported me throughout my volleyball career.

  • High School: Bellarmine Preparatory School
  • Hometown: Gig Harbor, WA
  • College Commitment: University of Alaska Anchorage
  • Degree Pursuing: Construction Management
  • Years at PSVBA: 3

Volleyball Accomplishments:

  • PSL All-League 1st Team
  • 2X WIAA State Attendee
  • Bellarmine VB MVP
  • Bellarmine VB Captain
  • Bellarmine VB Most Inspirational

Non-Volleyball Accomplishments:

  • Varsity Track and Field
  • Field Captain
  • National Honor Society
  • Honor Roll

MY FAVORITES

“Either I will find a way, or I will make one.” – Phillip Sidney

  • Volleyball Memories: PNQ with 6 players, running into the wall of the facility and concussing myself, beating NPJ.
  • Song: Hey Baby – Pitbull
  • Color: Orange

Advice I would give to younger players is “Be open to every piece of advice you receive and take every opportunity to work hard and get better.”

Kianna Rohner

Kianna Rohner | Sports Recruits

About Me

My Dad and Mom inspire me most because they are the most hardworking people I know, and they have given my brother and I so many amazing opportunities that I am beyond grateful for!  Something people may not know about me is that I love to hunt and fish!  Five years from now, I hope to have graduated from college with a degree and have a stable job working as an occupational therapist near my hometown.  I want to thank my family for being such a huge support and having my back through thick and thin. I’m thankful for coaches and teammates along the way who have made me into a better player and person. And finally for God who has given me strength and amazing opportunities which I am grateful day after day.

  • High School: White River
  • Hometown: Buckley, WA
  • College Commitment: Dominican University of California
  • Degree Pursuing: Occupational Therapy
  • Years at PSVBA: 4

Volleyball Accomplishments:

  • 2X Tacoma Pierce County Athlete of the Year Nominee
  • 2X First Team All-League
  • WSCVA All-State Team 3A/4A
  • White River Offensive POTY
  • 2X HS Varsity Team Captain.

Non-Volleyball Accomplishments:

  • National Junior Honor Society
  • 2X Kiwanis Award Winner
  • White River School Board Student of the Month
  • National Honor Society
  • AVID Executive Officer
  • 100+ Community service hours.

MY FAVORITES

“For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

  • Volleyball Memories: Last power league beating NPJ, New Orleans and Nationals this year!
  • Song: Enter Sandman (remastered) by Metallica
  • Color: Hot Pink

Advice I would give to younger players is “That even when you face difficult and unattainable situations, keep your head up, stay positive and know that anything is possible when you put your heart to something.”

 

Aissata Bangoura

Aissata Bangoura | Sports Recruits

About Me

I’m inspired by Viola Davis as well as historical figures like Fredrick Douglass. Viola is an inspiration due to her way of words and insights on adversity, self-worth, and honing your gifts. Fredrick Douglass because he has made so much impact through his empowering speeches on the edge of the reconstruction period.  I have 6 siblings.  In five years, I see myself working and establishing networks in non-profits and education sectors while finishing and wrapping up my volleyball career.   Some of my most memorable volleyball moments include leading team talks with my underclassmen before games and developing close relationships with them in hopes of showing them the joys of volleyball. I also remember our first senior game against auburn high school after all the anticipation; it was fun making big moments plays with the teammates.  I would like to thank my siblings for grounding me and reaffirming my value throughout all the adversity that came with it.  I also want to thank every and any coach that was willing to bet on me and believe in my capabilities, before I did.

  • High School: Todd Beamer
  • Hometown: Federal Way, WA
  • College Commitment: Undecided
  • Degree Pursuing: Sociology
  • Years at PSVBA: 1

Volleyball Accomplishments:

  • 3A All-District Team (Sr)
  • Varsity Team Captain (Sr)

Non-Volleyball Accomplishments:

  • Extracurricular Involvement Revolving around Civics, Activism, Youth Advocacy
  • Junior Speaker at City Council Meetings
  • Organizing Forums on Issues within District Policy
  • 3.8 GPA w/ rigorous course load

MY FAVORITES

“Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground.” ― Theodore Roosevelt

  • Song: Off the grid – Kanye West
  • Color: Green

Advice I would give to younger players is 

as cliche as it sounds, it’s important to believe in yourself and find a circle of people who you can trust to reaching your highest potential.  Also work to be a good teammate and don’t get so caught up on yourself and neglect the team.