East County Athlete of the Week: Adelaide Mahler

Adelaide Mahler is a junior and a leader of the volleyball team at The Out-of-Door Academy. She led the Thunder with 11 kills and five blocks in the team's loss to Indian Rocks Christian School on Oct. 3. 

When did you start playing volleyball?

I started playing school volleyball in sixth grade. I used to come to ODA volleyball games when I was younger than that. My dad (David Mahler) works for the school, so I would come with him. Once I saw one match, I was hooked. 

What is the appeal of volleyball to you? 

That's a good question. I've been on varsity since eighth grade. My ninth grade year, I missed the season with a high ankle sprain and torn ligaments. At that point, I was deciding whether I liked volleyball or lacrosse more. Sitting out, even though I was still part of the team, I missed the synergy and energy on the court. It is such an intimate game, and I really love that. 

What is your best skill?

I think my height (6-foot-1) is an advantage, but I also give off an even, positive energy. A lot of the time, it's easy to get down on yourself. You need someone there with that mindset who doesn't get swayed too easily.

What other sports did you play in your childhood?

I played lacrosse and soccer in the past, and this year I'm going to play basketball as well. 

What is your favorite volleyball memory?

Every year in the preseason we do a team scavenger hunt where moms drive us all over the place and we have to get people to do things. Last season, we had to get kids to sing songs from "Frozen." That was pretty fun.

What is your favorite food?

Zucchini. It is such a versatile food. Zucchini bread, zucchini noodles. You can grill it or sauté it. 

What hobbies do you have?

I do a lot of service work. I'm passionate about sustainability and clean water. Also, water color is my favorite medium of art. 

What is your dream vacation?

Backpacking across southeast Asia. 

What is your favorite TV show?

"Madam Secretary." It's the only show where I have stayed up to watch a new episode. 

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

My dad always says, "It is what it is." There are just some things you cannot control in life, it's out of your hands. You just have to make the best of it. 

Finish this sentence: "Adelaide Mahler is ... "

... Thoughtful. I think people think of me as a thoughtful person in terms of giving sympathy and empathy to others. I also never act too quickly. I think through things and analyze things before I act.