Norman North senior Taylor Covey understands the sport of volleyball is a game of persistence, preparation and trust in the people beside her.

Covey plays middle blocker for the Lady Timberwolves, a position that demands quick decisions and attention to detail on every rally. Whether she is tracking an opposing hitter or closing a block with a teammate, Covey embraces the challenge of competing at the net.

“I play middle blocker and the most difficult thing about it is reading other players. As a middle, you not only have to read the other teams’ setter to know where they are setting or track the ball to the hitter, but you must also focus on the pin blocker on your side to see where they are setting up the block.”

That constant communication and awareness are especially important for a Norman North squad built around experienced players. Ten of the team’s 14 varsity players are seniors, and Covey has shared the court with six of those teammates since middle school.

“What I love most about my team at Norman North is our relentless drive. Even when games get tough, or we are two sets down, my teammates do not quit, instead, they fight until the final point. Ten of the fourteen players on varsity are seniors, six of which I have been playing with since middle school.”

The longtime connections have helped create a team culture centered on resilience. Covey values the fight her teammates bring when momentum shifts, and the match becomes difficult.

Away from the court, Covey stays active in several school organizations. She is vice president of Norman North’s Technology Student Association chapter and co-president of Beyond Bible Study. She also participates in National Honor Society, Students Performing Unselfish Deeds and Youth and Government.

Covey said her biggest inspiration is her sister, Cesily, whose example has shaped how she approaches challenges in athletics, academics and life.

“The person who inspires me the most is my sister, Cesily. She gives everything her all and does not let adversity stand in her way. If a door gets closed, she finds a window, always moving forward no matter the circumstance. She always stands up for what she believes in and makes her voice heard. She is always there when I need her through late night calls or early morning texts, she gives me advice on how to not only better myself but also the people around me.”

After graduation, Covey plans to pursue a degree in biomedical engineering or chemical engineering. She has already explored that interest through a summer research program at the University of Oklahoma, where she worked in a biomedical research lab studying the use of optical coherence tomography to improve organ-transplant success.

Whether she is reading an attack at the net or pursuing answers in the lab, Covey brings the same determined approach that defines her team.