Known for her joyous spirit and endearing heart, Cal Poly libero and defensive specialist Layla Haberfield has already made an impact with the Mustangs throughout her first few years with the program. A California native, Layla was a star at La Costa Canyon High School before her collegiate career began at Cal Poly.
Growing up, Layla was always close with her family. With her sister, London, now playing alongside her on Cal Poly’s team, Layla has always experienced deep relationships with her parents and siblings. She credits her parents for raising her in a house that instilled those values in her from a young age.
“I am so blessed to have been raised in a Christian household. Both my parents are Christian and I accepted Jesus into my life with my mom when I was six years old.”
Layla says that experiences at Forest Home camp also played a key role in her journey of faith, giving her strength and comfort throughout every situation in her life.
After her freshman season was altered due to Covid, Layla helped contribute to the Mustangs in her redshirt freshman year after appearing in 14 sets. In her redshirt sophomore year, Layla did not appear in a match but remained upbeat helping support her teammates and coaches however she could. Throughout her career, she says her faith has strengthened her both on and off the court.
“Playing volleyball has without a doubt made me grow stronger to God. I’ve played volleyball for 10 years and throughout my journey the one verse that has stayed close to my heart is Jeremiah 29:11. I don’t always know what’s best for me, but God does. God has a plan for me that is greater than what I can imagine.”
Layla says that mindset allows her to never get too caught up in the results of a match, but instead to trust God and His timing.
“So instead of getting upset and frustrated about injuries or playing time, I try to remember that God knows what is going to happen. His plan is better than mine. And unsurprisingly, when I’m not in the word as much, my performance decreases. I believe this is God calling for my attention. Because God gives me strength to perform at my best.”
“To me and many that know her, Layla is an angel God gifted us all. She truly is a light in this world and her love for God is so apparent from her presence and actions. With her support and grace, I have been able to grow so much stronger in my faith and more like the man of God I had dreamed of being. She is a wonderful, caring, and driven woman who deeply loves God, her family, friends, and her teammates. Anyone would be lucky to share a small part of their life with her.”
As Layla looks to continue to make an impact on the court for the Mustangs, she says she hopes her play is a reflection of who she plays for. “I hope that I will be able to impact others by reflecting Jesus, whether that’s through his words or his actions. I want to be selfless in helping my team to victory and showing how great His love is.”
Whether contributing to the team on the court or off of it, Layla carries with her a smile and joy wherever she goes. Demonstrating love and care to all those around her, Layla says that she hopes she can look back at her career knowing she took every opportunity she could to make a difference in the lives of others.