Committed: Anne Haley

The Left Hand Valley Courier is featuring each of the nine Niwot High School students who signed National Letters of Intent on the Nov. 13 fall signing day to continue their academic and athletic careers at the collegiate level. From soccer to track and field, these athletes represent a diverse array of sports and dreams fulfilled.

Anne Haley's journey in volleyball began at a young age, influenced by her mother's love for the sport. From the early days of recreational volleyball to becoming a four-year varsity starter for Niwot High School, Haley's dedication and talent have shaped her into an elite setter.

Haley, who finished her high school career with 2,599 assists, 134 aces, and 220 kills, has been a crucial player for Niwot. This season, she was named "Setter of the Year" in the Granite Peaks Conference and earned First Team All-Conference honors. Despite the recognition, she credits her teammates for her success.

"I'm super honored to have that title, but I'm nothing without my amazing passers and hitters that support me and allow me to succeed at Niwot and in club," Haley said.

For her, volleyball has always been about more than personal achievements. "I always loved how much teamwork was needed to play volleyball," she said. "It's such a collaborative and strategic sport, and I realized that at a young age."

Haley has spent most of her career as a setter, though she briefly played libero for a season. But setting has always been her favorite. "I get to have my hands on the ball every single play, and it's just a super fun position," she said.

One of her favorite memories came during her freshman year when the Cougars defeated Thompson Valley in a five-set thriller, winning 17-15 in the final set. Competing alongside talented older players in such a high-stakes match is something she will never forget.

Beyond high school, Haley has been deeply involved in club volleyball for seven years. This season, she is with Rocky Elite in Loveland. "Club is definitely the main reason I get to compete at the collegiate level, and I'm so grateful for all the amazing coaching and support I've gotten," she said.

Haley credits several influential coaches throughout her journey. She said her private coach, Angela Knopf, has played a huge role in both her mental and physical approach to the game. "She is the volleyball whisperer, and I love her," Haley said. She also believes her high school coaches, Daisha Agho and Tony Engel, have had a major impact on her development and experience at Niwot.

Haley has her own way of preparing for matches, relying on visualization before every game. "I just close my eyes, focus on my breathing, and visualize exactly what I want to focus on during competition."

The college recruiting process was long and challenging for Haley. She reached out to many schools through email, but ultimately, getting in front of coaches at camps and tournaments proved to be the most effective. After attending a camp at Colorado College, she knew it was the right fit.

"After the Colorado College camp, I was confident I wanted to go to a school that could offer such amazing academics along with such a beautiful location," she said.

As she prepares for the next level, Haley is most excited about building new relationships through volleyball and competing at a higher level while challenging herself academically. Off the court, Haley has big plans for her future. She intends to major in psychology and follow a pre-med track, with hopes of becoming a doctor.

Her advice for younger athletes looking to play in college is to make sure they choose a school they love beyond just sports. "Go to a college that you would love even if you didn't play a sport," she shared. "Your sport is not who you are, and it is important to go to a school where you can embrace who you are outside of being an athlete."

Haley leaves behind a legacy of leadership, dedication, and teamwork at Niwot. With her next chapter at Colorado College ahead, she is ready for the challenges and opportunities that await.