For Isabella Petruzziello and Liz Aquino, being a captain has given them experiences that extend beyond their respective sports. Petruzziello, an 11th-grade cheerleader and side base, has learned how important confidence can be in a leadership role, while Aquino, a 12th-grade volleyball player and setter, has focused on being someone her teammates can rely on. Their seasons have also given them memories and lessons that they will carry with them beyond high school.
One of Petruzziello’s favorite memories came during her sophomore year at UCA cheer camp, where she met Danielle and Lisa. The four-day camp gave the three an opportunity to spend time together away from their usual routine while building a friendship that Petruzziello continues to value. “It was the best four days of my life at UCA camp thanks to Lisa and Danielle,” Petruzziello said. “I will never forget the support and laughter we shared together.”
Aquino’s favorite memory came during her team’s game against East Haven, where she saw her teammates come together even after falling behind. “We all worked together instead of working against each other,” Aquino said. “We built each other up even when we were losing, that never give up mindset will always be my favorite feature about this team.” After coming back from losing the first two sets, Aquino said, “That powerful and unstoppable feeling I felt after that game was unmatched.”
Both athletes have also developed their own understanding of what it means to be a captain. Petruzziello said she initially struggled to speak up because she did not want to upset her teammates, but eventually realized she needed to become more confident in her role. “Being captain this year has taught me that it’s not skill that makes you a leader, it is your attitude,” Petruzziello said. “Now I know as captain I have to have more authority and confidence in order for my teammates to see that I am someone to respect.”
Aquino has learned that being a captain is about being someone her teammates can depend on. “Being ‘captain’ isn’t about being the best player, it’s about being reliable, taking accountability when needed, being there for my teammates whenever they need me whether that be on the court or off, setting a good example for my team, communicating, being encouraging, and staying positive towards my team even when it gets hard,” Aquino said.
Away from their teams, both athletes have found accomplishments to be proud of. Petruzziello said her determination has helped her take on advanced classes and continue working hard even when school becomes difficult. “I pride myself in always trying my best, even when things get hard,” Petruzziello said. “If I set my mind to something, I will do it, no matter the cost.”
Aquino is proud of her academic achievements and her ability to balance school with volleyball, while also maintaining her relationship with God. She also takes pride in the improvement and confidence she has gained since beginning the sport she loves. “One thing I am proud of off the court is my academic achievements, being able to juggle my sport, school, mental health, and my relationship with God,” Aquino said. “On the court I am proud of how much I have improved since I started this sport that I love with all of my heart, the confidence I have gained, and my ability to stay positive and bubbly even at our lowest.”
Looking ahead, both athletes have plans for life after high school. “I plan to attend college after high school. I’m not sure what college yet, but I know I want it to be in Connecticut. I also want to continue with cheer, whether that means going D1 or joining a club team,” Petruzziello said.
Aquino is also looking forward to continuing her education after graduation. “After high school I plan on going to college to study sonography. My goal is to become an APRN sonographer,” Aquino said.
The people closest to them have also played an important role in their athletic and personal journeys. Petruzziello credits her mom for being there at every game and practice while also supporting her academically. “My mom is my biggest supporter,” Petruzziello said.
Aquino also points to her mom and coach, saying they have always made her feel seen and heard while pushing her toward the goals she has set for herself. “They helped me reach the goals I set for myself, pushed me to my fullest potential and most importantly they never gave up on me,” Aquino said.
Petruzziello and Aquino are each approaching the rest of their high school careers with a clearer sense of what they want from themselves and their teams. Petruzziello hopes to continue cheer in college, while Aquino is preparing to pursue sonography. For both, their time as captains has become part of the experience they will take with them beyond high school.