Noah DeLong is one of this year’s scholarship recipients. Noah is graduating from Mechanicsburg Area Senior High this June and will attend Hobart and William Smith College in Geneva, NY. He credits his introduction to volleyball to a friend who invited him to play in the park with a group of friends between his freshman and sophomore years in high school. During his sophomore year he made the JV team and played one scrimmage before the 2020 global pandemic shut everything down. The following year he started playing club volleyball, first with Yorktowne Volleyball Club before moving to Prevail Volleyball Club the following year.
A life lesson that he learned during club volleyball was how to market himself as he met and corresponded to with college coaches during the recruiting process. Noah will be on the inaugural men’s team at Hobart and William Smith College next year.
We put together this quick Q&A to get to know Noah a bit better:
What is your intended major of study at college?
I plan to study Environmental Sciences and International Affairs at Hobart and William Smith Colleges.
What is your greatest volleyball accomplishment?
My greatest volleyball achievement is my team’s success at the BANE qualifier. We played some fantastic teams and managed to fight hard and finish in 3rd place. It was a good finish to a successful season.
Best piece of volleyball advice you’ve ever received?
When setting, think about what the other team is seeing. For instance, think about what the blockers are seeing and what the defense sees. Also, move your feet.
What are some things you’ve learned about yourself from volleyball?
I have learned that I am a positive force on the court. I can rally my teammates and make plays happen.
Who is your most influential role model and why?
My friend, Tyler. He introduced me to the sport of volleyball and showed me how to successfully balance life, volleyball, and school.
Do you have a favorite tournament experience?
I love going to tournaments. I like warming up and talking to players from other teams. They are always entertaining to talk to.
What would most people be surprised to learn about you?
I only played club volleyball for two years. Also, I like to cook.
What are three activities you enjoy outside of volleyball?
I like to play soccer and golf, watch sports (basketball, volleyball, soccer, and football) and play video games.
