Lower School Athletes to Watch

Helen Yuan ’30, Varsity Volleyball

Helen Yuan ’30 has been playing volleyball for five years, since she was just 11 years old. As a new Third Former, she has had a tremendous impact on the Groton varsity volleyball team. Her coaches write that she will “set when needed, play awesome defense, chase down a loose ball, and deliver on the service line with poise in high-pressure moments.” Helen describes the team as connected and close knit.

“We’re all different ages, but we are all connected in the sense that we have really good chemistry,” she says. “I love my team and everyone on it, and I will miss a lot of people next year.”

Helen appreciates the support she receives, on and off the court. Her roommate, Lele Xie ’30, for example, also plays varsity volleyball. When asked if that makes them closer, Helen says, “It definitely helps because we can have meals together, and have similar schedules.” She also mentions that she has friends outside of volleyball, and enjoys hanging out with many different types of people. At her favorite game, against Andover, many of her friends and most students came to watch. Off the court, Helen’s dad has taught her how to push through conflict, and her friends have “pushed her to work harder everyday.”

When asked to give advice to beginner players trying to improve, she tells new student-athletes to do everything they can to push themselves. Helen shared her favorite quote: “Work so hard you don’t have any regrets.”

Caleb Scribner ’30, Boys’ Varsity Cross Country

In just his second year of running, Caleb is adjusting to the demands of cross country while making his mark on the course. “It’s a lot more than last year in middle school,” he said. However, Caleb feels that his teammates have helped ease the transition. “The kids on the team are all great and have been super welcoming, especially the Fifth and Sixth Formers.”

His most memorable moment came at his first home race, where he set a personal record and finished third in the largest field he had ever raced against.

“It was super special as it was my first home race ever and really cool to see lots of people there,” Caleb said. For him, the sport is about more than individual results. “Teamwork is so much more important in cross country than you might think,” he explained, pointing to victories against Tabor and Roxbury Latin in which the team’s balanced lineup made the difference.

Encouragement matters just as much: “Getting cheered on by your teammates makes running a million times easier.” Although Caleb hopes to win a race overall, his focus remains on the team. “I just want the most for our overall team success, and to continue our dominant season,” he affirmed.