Athlete of the Week: Leonardo Pereira, West Orange boys volleyball

West Orange High boys volleyball defensive specialist Leonardo Pereira is one of the key players leading a talented and veteran Warriors squad this season on the hardwood. Along with Pereira, West Orange returns vital pieces at outside hitter and setter that should help carry the senior-heavy Warriors to a successful 2025. 

In 57 sets played last season, Pereira returned 180 serves, had 115 digs, 22 aces and added 13 kills. So far in the early season, the senior’s stellar play on the defensive side of the ball and in service has continued and he’s helped West Orange rattle off four consecutive wins after dropping its season opener.

The Basics

Age: 17

Sport: Boys volleyball

Grade: Senior

School: West Orange High

Q&A

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week? 

I feel honored and excited to be chosen as the Athlete of the Week.

What do you enjoy the most about volleyball? 

What I enjoy most about volleyball is the bond I have developed with my teammates; and winning is fun, too.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from volleyball? 

The biggest lesson I’ve learned from playing volleyball is that the input determines the output; how much work you put in plays a major role in how good you become.

What is your favorite volleyball memory?

My favorite volleyball memory is going to California for a tournament.

Who is your favorite athlete?

My favorite athlete is T.J. Defalco from the U.S. National Volleyball Team because of his physical ability.

What is your go-to pre-game meal?

My pre-game meal is ground beef, rice and potatoes.

What is your go-to pre-game hype song?

“The Prodigal” by Josiah Queen.

What is your favorite subject in school? 

My favorite subject in school is U.S. government, because I enjoy learning and understanding how our government works.

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island? 

A volleyball, someone to play volleyball with and food — because I only need those three things.

What is your favorite movie?

My favorite movie is the first “Maze Runner” because of the thrill.

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?

Jesus Christ so I could ask him questions personally.

If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go? 

When Jesus was on Earth so I could meet him.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?

To take my walk with Christ more seriously.

If you could ask your future self a question, what would it be?

I would ask myself if I’m rich in the future.

Who is your favorite superhero?

The Flash because he’s the most overpowered superhero there is.

Who is your favorite supervillain?

I would say Bane because of how strong he is.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I would have to pick super speed because you can do almost anything with that.

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?

Israel, Greece and Japan because those are three of the most beautiful places in the world.

If you could be an animal for a day, which one would you be and why?

I would be an eagle so I could feel what it’s like to fly.

What is your most controversial food take?

Dr. Pepper is the best soda of all time.

Does pineapple belong on pizza?

Absolutely.