By Travis Sloat

At 6-foot-3, it would seem Tatum Boettjer was destined to play the two sports she happens to love most today: volleyball and basketball. Currently, she’s in the middle of her senior volleyball season for the Derby High School, and she said the season is going well. 

“This year so far has been lots of fun,” she said. “In just the short amount of time we have had there has been so much growth which is amazing to see with only three varsity returners. I try to chip in as much information I can and also set a good example for them [the underclassmen], hoping that it stays with them. I love being in the role to keep everyone accountable and working hard,” Boettjer continued. “I really try to be a positive leader for everyone on the court and even off, to me having amazing relationships all throughout the team is what could separate our team from others. Knowing that the girls are so young gives me lots of hope and excitement to see how good they could become.”

Volleyball wasn’t necessarily even on the radar for Boettjer until she transferred to Derby, she said. 

“I fell in love with volleyball when I transferred to Derby my sophomore year,” she said. “That’s because of the teammates I was surround by and our coach, Shelby Kraus. They helped me to grow my game eminently while making relationships that I’ll keep forever.” 

In her free time, Boettjer said she enjoys hanging out with her friends and family and going to church. 

“After graduation, I plan to study psychology in college,” she said. “I also want to play either volleyball or basketball. I haven’t decided on which sport yet, but I’m letting God lead the way and He will give me my path. I feel like everyone always says this, but I really wish this wouldn’t end,” she said, referring to her last year as a Panther. “But on the other hand, all good things come to an end, and new things will always take their place.” 

2021 Derby Volleyball Schedule