Under the bright gym lights, the crowd roars as Edmond Memorial High School senior Lolufe Adedeji steps up to the net in a set position. She shares a signature handshake with her friend and teammate Camryn Bauer, a ritual they have had since middle school. On the court, Adedeji is a competitor who has helped lead the EMHS volleyball team to three state championships since her freshman year.
“I started playing volleyball when I was eight, and I really didn’t want to,” Adedeji said. “But over time, I fell in love with the sport.”
Head coach Kortney Jones has observed Adedeji’s growth since her freshman year of high school. According to Jones, Adedeji’s leadership and positivity during the games make her special to have on the court. Jones thinks it is important to have certain qualities when playing volleyball and working with a team.
“Be a leader and stay level-headed,” Jones said. “You can make an impact even on your hard days.”
After meeting her through middle school volleyball, Bauer has shared nearly every part of her volleyball journey with Adedeji. Bauer is impressed with Adedeji’s character, even when they have an upsetting play.
“If we lose a point, she tries to fix it,” Bauer said. “If we have bad energy, she tries to pick it up and I think that just displays her character really well.”
Her energy, mindset and talent have earned Adedeji attention from colleges from across the country. When it came time to decide her future, she chose to continue her volleyball career at Texas A&M University. Her choice felt right as soon as she walked onto the campus.
“When I picked Texas A&M over other schools, I was really excited—but I was also really nervous,” Adedeji said. “I just fell in love with the people and the environment.”
Going beyond high school, Adedeji is ready for the challenge that college volleyball will give her. She knows it will test her skills and mental strength, but also allow her to keep growing as a person. Jones has no doubt Adedeji will thrive at the next level.
“College volleyball is a whole different world,” Jones said. “But I think she’ll be able to step in and make an impact in practices and games for the teams.”
For Adedeji, earning the opportunity to play volleyball at Texas A&M is both a reward and a relief thanks to the scholarships she has received. As Adedeji leaves EMHS, she hopes future players will strive for success while also being themselves on the court. She carries the lessons she learned and friendships she gained as she advances from a Memorial Bulldog to a Texas A&M Aggie.
Contact Anna Vitiello at [email protected]
