East County Athlete of the Week: Baylee Hinkle

Baylee Hinkle is a senior outside hitter on the Braden River High indoor volleyball team. Head Coach Matthew McElhiney said Hinkle will be one of the team's all-around leaders during the 2024 season. The Pirates' regular-season schedule begins Aug. 20 with a 7 p.m. home match against Bradenton Christian School. 

When did you start playing volleyball?

I started when I was 8. My mom (Jessica Kane) has played her whole life and she coached, so it was easy for me to get into it. 

What is the appeal to you?

I love the team. I have been around these people for so long. We're a family. I love the competition of it, too. I love getting better every year. 

What is your best skill?

Hitting. I'm a big, powerhouse hitter. I love hitting through a block. I love everything about it. 

What have you been working to improve?

Passing. My serve receiving has been my weakest point for a long time. I feel like I have gotten a lot stronger at it this year. I'm excited to see the improvement. 

What is your favorite memory?

Last year's district championship game. I got the winning kill. That was a big thing for me. I got to hug my sister (Rylee Hinkle), who was a senior on the team. We all huddled together and said, 'It's a three-peat, we did it.'" 

What are your goals for this season?

I hope we can get past the regional semifinals. That has been a sticking point for us the last three seasons. I think with this team, we can do it. We want to get the (district tournament) four-peat and go from there. 

What is different about this year's team?

There's a better connection. The vibe is much better. There is a lot of positivity and good energy going around the team. I think we are ready to get back at it. 

What is your favorite food?

Fruit is a big thing right now, like acai bowls. I love those. 

What is your favorite TV show?

"Dawson's Creek." It's an oldie, but I love it. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I'm dual-enrolled at Manatee Technical College in practical nursing, so I would say science, especially biology and learning about the human body. 

What are your hobbies?

I just hang out with my friends whenever I can. I see these people (her teammates) all the time, but I like to catch up with other people from school or with my family. 

What is the best advice you have received?

My mom is good at knowing when I'm in my own head. She always tells me to push through the mental stuff, because I know I can physically do it. I just have to push myself. 

Finish this sentence: "Baylee Hinkle is … "

Outgoing. I'm an extrovert. I like going (places) and talking to people. I'm just out to have fun.