There are few programs that have had greater success or are more respected in Connecticut than the Darien High School volleyball team. The Blue Wave have won 18 Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference and 14 state titles, and have become the paradigm for excellence in the state.
As the Blue Wave set out starting Saturday on the road that they hope will lead to their ninth straight league and state championships, one of the players they will be counting on is Colby Billhardt, their 6-foot-1 hitter. Billhardt has been working non-stop — literally — all summer to improve her game.
Billhardt, one of Darien’s tri-captains, will follow in a long line of outstanding hitters the program has produced. And she likely will eventually become the 23rd member of the team to go on to play in college.
Though she has always towered above her classmates, Billhardt does not spend the winter playing for the Darien girls basketball team, but for the school’s boys swimming team.
I caught up with Billhardt this morning to discuss what she has done to get ready for the new season and what she thinks of the team’s prospects.
How wonderful to see you “almost in person,” Colby — It is plain to see you are a natural beauty with much talent. I like your attitude, and it sounds like you are quite a valuable and valued player at Darien High School. Good luck with your volleyball this season as well as your swimming with the guys. I know your mother and dad are very proud and feel blessed. Did you have a good time in Wisconsin this summer?
Comment by Melanie Campbell — August 27th, 2009 @ 11:06 pm
Go Colby! You represent your team so well! Have a great season and lead them on!
Comment by Ronna Draper — August 29th, 2009 @ 9:50 pm