Broken Arrow freshman right side hitter Camryn Ward is stepping into the varsity spotlight with a mix of excitement and determination as she joins the Lady Tigers and head coach Bullen for the upcoming season. Ward understands the standard set by last year’s squad and is eager to contribute on day one. “I’m very excited to play for the Tigers and Coach Bullen. I hope I can help the team add to the success they had last year.”
Slotted in on the right side, Ward embraces a role that demands both physicality at the net and reliability as a scoring option. She describes her position in simple, team-first terms that fit the Tigers’ system. “Blocking and being extra support as a pin hitter.” That mindset, focused on doing the little things that help teammates shine, has guided much of her offseason work.
Ward spent her summer building the strength and explosiveness she will need to battle older, more experienced opponents on a nightly basis. She committed herself to the weight room and specific training designed to elevate her game above the net. “Hitting the weights and explosive movements to help my vertical have been a big part of my preparation.”
Volleyball runs deep in Ward’s family, and that background continues to shape her approach as she adjusts to the pace and physicality of varsity play. She grew up watching relatives compete at a high level and now leans on that example as she begins her own high school career. “My cousins Jacy and Landry Braziel. I grew up watching them play volleyball at a high level and Landry is still playing at UTEP.”
Even with a strong volleyball foundation, Ward admits that transitioning directly into varsity as a freshman has brought its share of challenges. Matching the speed, size and experience of older athletes has become a daily test that she welcomes. “Playing with and against the varsity girls.”
For now, Ward is all-in on volleyball and academics, choosing to keep her focus narrow as she settles into high school life. Away from the gym, she keeps things balanced with simple activities that let her reset mentally. “Not at this time, I want to focus on my academics and volleyball.” “Swimming, hanging with my friends and reading.”
Much of her summer was spent with her club team, where she gained valuable tournament experience and confidence on a national stage. That run included a strong showing in the Liberty Division, adding momentum as she turns fully toward the high school season. “I spent a lot of time with my club team preparing for nationals where we came in third in the gold bracket of the liberty division. Other than that, I love spending time at the lake.”
