Lady Highlander Julia Pasch knows precisely what she wants on and off the court

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- The Woodlands High Lady Highlanders volleyball squad consists of a team of superstars, each one producing stellar stats, but it’s the synergistic effect...the sum of the individual’s numbers, that has resulted in a record of 31-2, and undefeated in District (9-0), in fact, they’ve only lost one set in the last 24 games. The team is currently ranked 18 in the nation, and number 5 in the state.

One of the stars of the team, Julia Pasch, has the distinction of being one of the most well-rounded players in the district. Equally effective on offense with 25 aces and 132 kills, and on defense with 117 blocks (leading in District), 196 digs, and 214 service receives; her numbers are more than double the national average, but Pasch humbly emphasizes that the team plays as a whole.

“Coach Madison emphasizes team play. At the beginning of the season she had us make both team goals, and individual goals,” said Pasch. “Our team goal was to treat every game as a championship game.”

Pasch’s individual goals are very specific.

“Every time I step on the court I renew my personal goals…achieve a certain percentage of hitting, and where to place the ball,” said Pasch.

The ability to seek out the weak spot and exploit it has served her team well, and driven up her stats. That attention to detail will also benefit Julia in the field of engineering. Although undecided whether to pursue petroleum or chemical engineering, she has made the decision to attend University of Louisiana.

“They reached out to me. I loved their volleyball program. I love the campus environment, and academically they have a great engineering degree program,” said Pasch.

The relocation of the ExxonMobil headquarters, and the influx of other oil and gas companies in the community, makes her degree choice another smart strategic decision. Pasch indicated that she would more than likely return to her roots once she’s completed her college education.

For the time being, she’s enjoying her senior year and encourages other students to pursue school to the fullest.

“Take advantage of every opportunity, no matter how small; getting that ‘A’, making a new friend. High school is the perfect learning environment. Take advantage of everything,” insists Pasch.

They say “Lead by example.” Those striving to excel can do so by following Julia Pasch’s example both on and off the court.