In the heart of Pasadena, Texas, the local high school volleyball program is experiencing an exhilarating renaissance, and at the forefront of this transformation is senior Caryme Molina. A dynamic player and four-year starter, Molina has become a symbol of resilience and talent, leading the Eagles to unexpected victories against larger schools. Her passion is palpable as she reflects on the team’s accomplishments: “Whenever we beat those big schools or have a good season, people weren’t expecting to see us.”
Molina’s statistics tell a compelling story. With an impressive record of 1,500 kills, 2,000 assists, and 1,500 digs, she has not only set individual milestones but has also elevated the program’s profile significantly. These numbers are not mere accolades; they represent years of dedication and hard work that promise to inspire future generations. “Obviously, I’m going to feel accomplished by doing that,” she states, “but I want to set those bars for people and break exactly what they did.” This drive to push boundaries is emblematic of the ethos cultivated within the Eagles program.
Adding a unique layer to Molina’s journey is her relationship with her head coach, Carmen Martinez, who also happens to be her mother. This familial bond adds emotional depth to their shared experiences on and off the court. “I can brag about that,” Molina beams, acknowledging the dual role her mother plays in her life. Coach Martinez, a former standout player for the Eagles herself, has witnessed the evolution of the program firsthand. “She’s grown up in this gym,” she says, emphasizing the legacy of hard work and perseverance that permeates their family and the team.
Molina’s perspective is shaped by the countless athletes who have come before her, as she notes, “Over the years, I got to watch a lot of them just grow as athletes and maybe put some of those tools that they had in my own toolbox.” This blend of mentorship and competitive spirit is crucial in nurturing young talent, proving that success is often rooted in community and shared experiences.
As the Eagles currently hold second place in District 18-5A, they are on the brink of making the playoffs for the fifth consecutive year, a feat that speaks volumes about the program’s resurgence. Coach Martinez expresses pride in her daughter’s achievements and the broader implications for their hometown: “For her to come home and be successful and just want other people to know that they too can do that. It’s okay to come from Pasadena and rep it.”
Looking ahead, Caryme is poised to take her talents to the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where she plans to study media production. Her aspirations extend beyond the volleyball court, as she envisions a future intersecting with professional sports, perhaps in the realms of the NFL, MLB, or NBA. Yet, her heart remains tethered to education. “After some years, I want to get my certification and teaching and become a kindergarten teacher,” she reveals, indicating a desire to give back to her community in a meaningful way.
In a world where young athletes often face immense pressure to perform, Caryme Molina stands out not just for her athletic prowess but for her commitment to uplifting others and her ambition to forge a path that honors her roots. As the Eagles continue their pursuit of playoff glory, one thing is clear: they are not just playing for wins; they are crafting a legacy that will inspire future generations of athletes in Pasadena and beyond.
