College Commits: Eva Finnessy
Photos submitted by Eva Finnessy.
Izzy Pack
Eva Finnessy, currently a junior at Hamilton, has been playing volleyball for eight years. She recently committed to playing college volleyball at Northern Illinois University.
Finnessy’s teammate, junior Brooke Aslakson, says about her, “Eva is a player who others look up to, making her a crucial player for our team. She is confident but also composed in a way that makes her a strong leader on and off the court. She is also a very dependable player as she plays with a smart yet aggressive mindset. As a teammate, Eva is one you can lean on. She always makes sure everyone feels a part of the team and is one of the first ones to celebrate your successes. Anyone who gets the chance to play with her is lucky.”
Her current high school coach, Traci Buhr, also says about Finnessy, “We are super excited for Eva on her recent commitment to Northern IL. Her leadership, resilience, and work ethic both on and off the court have helped her achieve her dreams of playing D1 volleyball. She is a wonderful teammate and role model for all Hamilton female athletes. Her drive for success is unmatched, and we are excited that she will lead our team again.”
Read more to hear from Finnessy:
How long have you been playing?
I first started playing when I was 9 years old on a Jr. Chargers team. Then, when I was 11 years old, I started my first season at Milwaukee Sting for club volleyball.
What is your favorite memory from volleyball?
Going to State my junior year and experiencing the atmosphere of playing at the Resch Center with some of the top teams in the state.
What do you think is your favorite/best volleyball goal you've accomplished?
Since I first started playing volleyball, my biggest goal was to play collegiate volleyball at the Division 1 level. That being said, committing to play at Northern Illinois University is my best accomplishment.
What will you miss most about playing for Hamilton?
I will miss the team chemistry and stopping at Culver’s after every game.
How has volleyball impacted your life?
Volleyball has given me life long friendships and the opportunity to travel the world while meeting new people. I have been able to travel around the United States and even Europe to play the game I love. I have also learned many valuable lessons in communication, collaboration, perseverance, and dedication. Furthermore, since I committed to Northern Illinois and I will be on scholarship, financially, volleyball has given me the gift of free college that my family does not entirely have to pay for.
What is one lesson you've learned from volleyball?
Volleyball has taught me the power of perseverance. Just like in a practice or game, facing challenges in life requires persistence and determination to overcome many obstacles and achieve my goals. Volleyball allowed me to build my resilience, which will help me navigate difficulties and keep pushing me forward in various aspects of my life.
What was the recruitment process like for you?
Everyone's recruitment process is different and can go in any direction. For me, my process was slower and took awhile for me to find a home. After looking at multiple colleges, I was able to narrow down my decision, which was obviously a hard choice to make, but in the end, Northern Illinois checked all my boxes for what I wanted in a school. Many of my club teammates committed before me, but I took my time and worried about myself rather than rushing my decision.
What is one thing that a volleyball coach has told you that you will carry into playing in college?
Although volleyball is a big part of my life, it is important to also have a social life outside of sports.
What advice do you have for younger players?
Be yourself and be dedicated to what you do. Don't let other people influence you or ruin the goals you have set. If you do want to play in college, don't sell yourself short. You can play at any level as long as you have the heart and willingness to do so.
What are you most excited about next year playing for the NIU Huskies?
I am most excited to be training alongside amazing athletes and meeting new people along the way.
Is there anyone you’d like to give a positive shoutout to who has been instrumental in your journey?
My parents have always been my number one supporters. Without them, I wouldn't be where I am today. Growing up, they were the ones that encouraged sports and eventually, when I found my love for volleyball, they never stopped pushing me to be the best. I am grateful to have parents that care so much about me and want what's best for me. Along with my parents, my brother has also been a major influence in my life. He has guided me through my decision making process and has always been a role model to me. I truly can't imagine not having my family by my side through this journey.
