Athlete of the Week: Maya Henderson, Ocoee volleyball

Ocoee’s senior outside hitter, Maya Henderson, has played a pivotal role on the team in its regular-season record of 11-4 and will continue to as the team heads into playoffs. She leads the team in kills per set, averaging seven kills per game and averages six aces and five digs. Henderson reached a personal goal by recording 107 total kills this season. 

Outside of high school volleyball, Henderson plays for Game Point Volleyball, where she was named All-American after her club team placed third in its division during Nationals. 

Aside from being a phenomenal player on the court, Henderson is an all-star in the classroom, too. She has achieved a 5.036 weighted GPA, the Cambridge AICE Diploma and a full-ride Florida Bright Futures Scholarship.

What do you enjoy the most about volleyball? 

What I enjoy most about volleyball is the rush you get after making a big kill or a stuff block, and the excitement of celebrating those moments with my teammates.

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

The biggest lesson I’ve learned from volleyball is that mistakes will happen. You just have to shake it off, focus on the next point and keep your head up.

What is your favorite volleyball memory?  

My favorite volleyball memory is placing 3rd out of more than 150 teams in our division at AAU Nationals this past summer with my club team and being named an All-American. This moment was extra special because, although my primary position is outside hitter, I was asked at the end of the season to step into the middle position after two of our middles were sidelined with injuries. It was an incredible experience to compete at such a high level with my team and see all of our hard work pay off despite the challenges we faced.

Who is your favorite athlete and why?

My favorite athlete is Maya Duckworth from Iowa State because, like me, she’s an undersized hitter who proves that height doesn’t define your impact on the court. I admire how she uses her athleticism, determination and skill to make a huge impact on the volleyball court. She’s a great example of how hard work and confidence can set you apart, no matter your size.

What is your go-to pre-game meal? 

When I’m near one, I will always go for a Chicken Chipotle bowl with chips and guac on the side or a whole-grain sandwich or wrap with protein and vegetables, plus fruit and water to stay hydrated. 

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

My current go-to hype song is “LA MuDANZA” by Bad Bunny.  

What is your favorite non-sports hobby?

My favorite non-sports hobby is doing my own nails. It’s a fun way to relax and express myself.

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

A cruise ship with everything I need in it, a water purifier or filter for clean water and a cell phone with unlimited battery. 

What is your favorite movie? 

It’s a tie between Hercules and The Princess and the Frog.

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

I would want to have dinner with Maya Angelou, the poet, author and civil rights activist, I was named after. Her strength and wisdom inspire me. One of my favorite quotes from her is, “No matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.”

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

I would ask my future self if the trip to Japan with my friends ever made it out of the group chat.

Who is your favorite superhero? Why? 

My favorite superhero is Spider-Man, specifically Miles Morales. I love his journey of building confidence and growing into himself, and I admire his strong moral compass that drives him to stand up for what he believes in.

Who is your favorite supervillain? Why?  

I don’t really have a favorite supervillain, but my favorite villain in general is Cruella. I love her outfits and her confidence.  

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

If I could have any superpower, it would be teleportation. It would give me more time to sleep in and help me avoid being late to places, which is my biggest pet peeve.

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

If I could travel to three places in the world, I would choose Japan, Hawaii and Colombia. I’m drawn to Japan and Hawaii because I really admire the culture and the aesthetics of both places. I’d also love to visit Colombia to connect with my mom’s side of the family and learn more about my roots.

What is your most controversial food take? 

Raising Canes’ chicken is overrated and Publix’s fried chicken is the best out there.

Does pineapple belong on pizza? 

For sure, just not on mine.