FOLSOM, Calif. — Lauren Kim has quickly established herself as a key contributor to one of the Sacramento region’s premier high school volleyball programs. The Folsom High School junior and Class of 2028 setter is a two-time Division I Section Champion, bringing championship experience, leadership, and a competitive mindset to a Bulldogs program with its sights set on a state title.
For Kim, the journey to Folsom has been anything but ordinary. Just three months ago, she was preparing to enter an entirely new environment after moving to Folsom ahead of her junior year. The transition meant adjusting to a new school, a different lifestyle, and an established volleyball program already featuring four experienced setters.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding such a significant change, Kim found something special in her new teammates almost immediately.
From her first day with the program, she felt welcomed into a culture built around trust, encouragement, and accountability. What initially seemed like an intimidating transition quickly became an opportunity for growth, both as an athlete and as a person.
That connection has translated directly onto the volleyball court, where Kim has embraced the responsibility of helping direct Folsom’s offense. As a setter, her role requires communication, decision-making, consistency, and the ability to bring out the best in the players around her.
She has the opportunity to work alongside an impressive collection of talent, including USC commit Jazmin Ojo on the outside and Oregon-bound middle Avery Masters. Together, they give Folsom a formidable offensive presence as the Bulldogs pursue their championship ambitions.
Kim’s volleyball journey began after years of competing in multiple sports. Before discovering her passion for volleyball in middle school, she was a member of a nationally ranked soccer team. Eventually, the excitement and constant movement of volleyball convinced her to leave soccer behind and dedicate herself to a new athletic challenge.
What captured her attention wasn’t simply the competition. It was the unique rhythm of the game, the nonstop action, and the moments when six athletes operate with complete trust and understanding.
That appreciation for teamwork continues to shape her approach as a setter. Kim takes pride in creating opportunities for her teammates and helping the entire offense operate as one connected unit.
Her competitive accomplishments reflect the dedication she has invested in the sport. Already a two-time Division I Section Champion, Kim understands the preparation, discipline, and commitment required to compete at a championship level.
However, she has no intention of allowing previous accomplishments to define the remainder of her high school career.
Her immediate objective is to help lead Folsom to a California state championship, building on the program’s success while continuing to develop her leadership and technical abilities.
Beyond high school, Kim hopes to continue her volleyball career at a college that offers an exceptional combination of academics and athletics. She wants to challenge herself in the classroom while competing at the highest level her abilities will allow.
Throughout her journey, Kim credits her family for providing an extraordinary foundation of support. She also recognizes the coaches and teammates who have helped shape her development and encouraged her through the challenges that come with competitive athletics.
That support has helped establish a mindset centered on gratitude, determination, and making the most of every opportunity.
Kim approaches each match understanding that another opportunity to compete is never guaranteed. Rather than taking the game for granted, she strives to bring maximum effort, energy, and commitment every time she steps onto the court.
Her experience moving to Folsom has only strengthened that perspective. What began as a period of uncertainty has developed into a meaningful chapter filled with new friendships, competitive opportunities, and championship aspirations.
For Kim, the greatest reward is not simply winning matches or collecting individual recognition. It is being part of a team that challenges one another, celebrates one another’s success, and continues growing together.
With two section championships already on her résumé, a talented group of teammates surrounding her, and a clear vision for her future, Kim is determined to help Folsom reach even greater heights.
The Bulldogs have championship expectations, and Lauren Kim believes their journey is far from finished.
