Grace Carroll - Trusting the Process

Grace Carroll, a freshman opposite hitter for Baylor Volleyball, epitomizes the qualities of sacrifice, dedication, and faith in her journey from San Antonio to Baylor University. A standout recruit, Grace will be relying on God and his plan as she suits up for the Bears.

Grace’s faith has always been an integral part of her life, shaping her decisions both on and off the court. However, she says that throughout the last year she has seen it grow and be tested more than ever before.

“My faith has always been an important role through my career but especially through this last season of club volleyball.”

With a deep desire to excel at the collegiate level, Grace made a decision that would push her limits. Despite receiving top-notch training in San Antonio, she recognized the need for additional guidance to elevate her game. After consideration, Grace made the choice to travel to Dallas twice a week for practice sessions under the guidance of Ping Cao at Drive Nation.

The logistics of Grace’s commitment were more difficult than she imagined. Twice a week, she embarked on her journey, balancing academics, athletics, and faith with unwavering determination.

Describing her routine, Grace recounts, “We practiced twice a week every Monday and Wednesday. I would go to school until 1:30, drive to the San Antonio airport then catch the 2:30 flight into Dallas Love Field.”

Her schedule was a testament to her resilience and unwavering commitment. After hours of practice, Grace would find herself in a hotel room, catching only a few hours of sleep before embarking on an early morning flight back home. Despite the physical and mental toll, Grace remained steadfast in her conviction, drawing strength from her faith.

“People always said the same thing ‘that’s crazy’ or ‘that’s impossible’. With God it wasn’t,” she affirms.

Throughout this journey, Grace leaned on her faith to navigate the challenges and uncertainties. She found solace in the words of Psalm 46:1-2, “God is our strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear…” These verses became her guiding light, instilling in her the courage to persevere in the face of adversity.

For Grace, the sacrifices were not in vain. Her unwavering dedication bore fruit, not only in her performance on the court but also in her personal growth.

“In the end so many people came forward to tell me how amazing the decision was and how much I had improved as not only a player but a person as well,” she reflects.

As Grace prepares to embark on her collegiate volleyball journey at Baylor University, her faith serves as a steadfast foundation, guiding her every step of the way. “My faith has always been an important part of my life, but even more so now,” she reflects.

With the transition to collegiate athletics, Grace acknowledges a deepening reliance on God, recognizing His hand in every aspect of her life. “As I’ve started this new chapter in my life playing collegiate volleyball, I’ve learned to trust God even more and lean on him for everything,” she affirms.

For Grace, volleyball is more than just a sport; it is a platform to glorify God and showcase His faithfulness. “I play to glorify Him,” she says. With a trust in God’s plan and provision, Grace approaches her collegiate career with confidence, knowing that He has equipped her with everything she needs to succeed.

“Through my life, He has given me everything I need to succeed, and my only job is to trust in Him,” she concludes.

Grace Carroll’s story goes beyond the volleyball court, serving as an inspiration to all who encounter it. It is a reminder that with faith, dedication, and a trust in God, anything is possible. As she continues her journey, Grace’s unwavering faith will undoubtedly take her far and allow her to make an impact wherever she goes.