Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Lauren Medenis

Lauren Medenis, 17, is the only senior on the Cardinal Mooney High volleyball team. Coach Chad Sutton said Medenis has grown into the setter position this season and become a key player for the Cougars. 

How long have you been playing volleyball?

Seven years. I went to Pine View Middle School and I attended a volleyball camp. I played basketball at the time, and a basketball teacher had told me I should go just for fun. I did and I fell in love with it. I quit basketball and immediately started volleyball. 

What is the appeal of volleyball to you?

I love the team aspect, that's my favorite part. The competition of it, too, and the life skills I have taken from volleyball have helped me improve drastically as a person. I'm naturally introverted and shy, but through my high school career, I noticed I have gained leadership qualities, learned how to cooperate and work as a team, gained integrity and selflessness, all these different aspects. It has helped me to grow as a person so much. 

What is your favorite volleyball memory?

From my sophomore year, we were playing Clearwater Central Catholic at their gym. I remember halfway through the third set, our coach at the time (Grayson Barton) got a red card and was ejected from the game. We had won the first two sets, and then CCC won the third and fourth sets. In the fifth set, we pulled out a victory without a coach. That was a huge team-building moment. 

What other sports have you played?

I did basketball, and I actually did Tae Kwon Do for about four years. I have a first-degree black belt in it. Those were the big ones. I also did soccer and dance and that stuff. 

What are your goals for the rest of the season?

To continue to play as a team. Throughout the season we have had ups and downs. For the past 15 games, we have come together and played well, and I want to continue that progress all the way through districts and regionals. 

What is your favorite movie?

The new "Beauty and the Beast." I'm obsessed with it. I've probably watched it 10 times so far. 

What hobbies do you have?

I love animals, so I volunteer at Cat Depot and the Humane Society. I love hanging with my friends and family. I love going to the beach. I like to draw, too, and watch a lot of Netflix. 

What is your dream vacation?

I would love to go to Australia to see all the exotic animals. 

What is a random fact about you that others may not know?

I taught myself piano about two years ago.

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

I know it's basic, but it's to always be yourself. It really is true. Be yourself for you, not for other people. Growing up, especially in middle school, I cared about what other people thought of me. In high school, I don't remember who it was, but someone said, 'Be you for you.' Ever since then, I've been so much happier. 

Finish this sentence: "Lauren Medenis is ... "

... A kind and honest person. That's what everybody says (Laughs).