For Folsom High School junior Alana Black, chasing a future in volleyball has meant learning to contribute in a new way. A longtime setter, the Class of 2028 athlete recently stepped into the libero position for her high school team, taking on a different set of responsibilities while pursuing the same goal: becoming the best player she can be.
Black has been playing libero for just three months, but her volleyball background already includes championship experience. In 2025, she helped Folsom earn a Division I section championship. The year before, her Omni Volleyball club team won a USA national championship.
Moving from setter to libero has shifted her focus from running the offense to a role centered on passing and defense. As she builds experience at the position, Black remains open to continuing her career in either role. Her ambition is to play college volleyball, and that possibility gives purpose to the work she puts in today.
“Another thing that keeps me going is my dream of playing in college and knowing that the harder I push, the more likely those dreams become a reality,” Black said.
Her motivation also comes from a love of the game and a desire to discover how much she can accomplish.
“Something that motivates me would be my passion for the sport and wanting to be the best athlete I could possibly be,” she said.
Black’s interest in athletics extends beyond her own playing career. She hopes to pursue sports broadcasting, creating opportunities to work with other teams and athletes while staying connected to the competition she enjoys.
Away from volleyball, Black loves spending time with friends and family, traveling, and enjoying the beach and swimming during the summer. Those interests offer another side of an athlete whose goals reach beyond the court.
With championship experience behind her and a new position to grow into, Black is continuing to build toward her college ambitions—one season, one opportunity, and one adjustment at a time.
