After spending two years at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., a premier sports boarding school, junior Veda Sharma has returned to the school. She brings back both fond memories and sharpened dedication to the sport she loves most: volleyball.
“I started playing because I loved the sport my entire life and I knew it was something I wanted to take seriously,” Sharma said. “I love the sport because it truly allows me to see how far I can push myself.”
Sharma knew that leaving the school at 14 for IMG would not be easy. IMG is known for its intense training and competition, exactly what she sought in her pursuit of volleyball.
“I chose IMG because I wanted to be able to compete intensely against others who played at higher levels,” she said. “It was a great experience and it definitely made me a stronger player overall.”
win a point like this,” Sharma said. (Levi Mbadiwe)
“The reason I came back to Miami was to be closer to my family since they all live here,” Sharma said. “I’m happy to be back, but sometimes I miss all the friends I made at IMG.”
Her return has made a significant difference for the volleyball team, especially for her teammates, who believe her energy has inspired everyone to be their best.
“Veda is so fun to be around while playing volleyball,” her teammate, junior Briana Napoles, said. “She’s always there to push us when we need it.”
“She really adds energy to the team with jokes, and it helps us push through practice together,” junior Valentina Arango added.
Despite practices, games, and schoolwork competing for her time, Sharma has learned how to succeed in each.
“I stay organized and manage my time well between athletics and academics,” Sharma said.
If there’s one main lesson she wants others to take away from her experience, it’s that pursuing one’s goals is important.
“My advice is to work hard, stay focused, and enjoy the journey,” Sharma said. “It’s not always easy, but if you love what you’re doing, it’s worth it.”
Sharma’s return is more than just a matter of volleyball. It’s about taking risks, learning from them, and emerging stronger.
