Abby Vander Wal - A Higher Calling

For Abby Vander Wal, one of the top volleyball recruits in her class, faith has been her pillar throughout her journey. The Texas volleyball commit says that faith has played a central role in helping her to navigate the highs and lows of her career, providing her with peace, clarity, and a sense of purpose.

Faith has been an integral part of Abby’s life since childhood. Growing up attending church and a small Christian school, she found support from her family and friends to grow in her faith.

“My relationship with God has developed into a more personal and meaningful relationship. Through church, youth group, young life at school, and some amazing mentors, God has shown me His steadfast love. He has truly blessed me beyond what I could have imagined.”

As Abby has become one of the top young players in the sport, she says that she knows her worth has not changed. Every time she takes the court, she says she finds her identity in faith and that gives her the confidence to take on each day with joy and enthusiasm.

“My faith has always been an important part of my volleyball career. I know that regardless of what happens on the court, my value in God’s eyes will never change. Through the highs and lows of my career, I know I can lean on Him, and that gives me so much peace,” Abby reflects.

Abby’s journey to Texas was marked by a deep trust in her faith. In the midst of the recruiting process, where decisions and choices can be daunting, Abby found solace in surrendering the outcome to God.

“In the middle of recruiting last year, it was sometimes pretty overwhelming and stressful. I tried hard not to worry too much about it because I knew that God had the perfect place for me already picked out.”

Abby’s trust in God’s plan for her life allowed her to focus on her game and personal growth, trusting that the right opportunity would present itself in due time.

“It was so amazing for me to see how He gave me so much peace and clarity that Texas was the right place for me and how everything came together at the right time. He has led me every step of the way and will continue to lead me.”

As she enters the next chapter of her volleyball career at the University of Texas, Abby is excited about the prospect of using her platform to inspire and encourage young girls.

“I hope to use my platform to show young girls what it means to have Christ-like behavior in words and actions both on and off the court. Every moment is a chance for me to shine my light for Him.”

Abby’s commitment to kindness and authenticity is a testament to her desire to reflect Christ’s love in every interaction.

“I try hard to be kind and authentic in the way I treat everyone, and I hope that people will see Christ’s love through those interactions no matter who I come in contact with.”

Looking ahead, Abby is eager to embrace the opportunities that God has allowed her to experience in her volleyball career and is excited about the potential impact she can have on younger players.

“As I look to my future at Texas, I am so excited to see how He is able to use me to impact younger players and those around me. I was that little girl looking up to the older players not that long ago, and it’s crazy to me how now I have the opportunity to be the one to inspire and encourage the next generation!”

Abby Vander Wal’s faith-fueled journey is not only a testament to her resilience but also a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes seeking purpose beyond the game.