Grace McKeown is a sophomore at Bear River and has been a big standout in the girls volleyball program. When McKeown came up to varsity her freshman year, she came with something to prove to herself and people that didn’t believe in her.

“The main moment was when I decided to take the hard path to be the best I could after a rough season, and make it so no coach could sit me on the bench. Instead of giving up, I wanted to prove everybody wrong who didn’t believe in me,” McKeown says.

Thanks to her hard work and determination, she made her sophomore season one to remember, setting the school single season kills record.

Teammates describe McKeown as a hardworking individual who is very confident in her teammates and her ability to get the job done in game.

“Her biggest strength is being able to advocate for herself and being able to communicate with the team which helps bring us up and keep everyone locked in,” said sophomore Bella Stafford.

Her grit and determination is greatly admired by her teammates and coaches. Throughout her years of playing she has made it her mission to become the best version of herself both physically and mentally. She takes pride in her ability to take the lessons she’s learned and use them as her journey progresses.

“You also learn so many lessons that benefit you through life when you accept failure as well as success, you learn humility, discipline, leadership and so many more skills, that if approached with the right mindset can benefit you throughout life.” McKeown says.

McKeown’s hard work doesn’t go unnoticed by her teammates, and the program's support helps her become stronger every day.

“She is an amazing leader and she brings such a competitive spirit that increases everyone’s intensity and energy,” junior Gabby Sams says.

McKeown’s coaches and teammates can’t wait to see where she goes.