Lakeland's Tatiana Aquart Goes Under the Athlete's Spotlight

YORKTOWN, N.Y—Lakeland senior girls volleyball middle blocker/all-around player Tatiana Aquart enjoyed a great campaign this fall.

Playing in her second season on the varsity, Aquart was named both All-League and All-Section for a Hornet squad that made it to the Section 1 Class A finals.

What did it mean to play in the Section 1 Class A finals at the Westchester County Center in White Plains?

It meant so much to me, because having the opportunity to play in an amazing arena with your team and all the progression throughout the season knowing we worked hard to get to this point, was surreal. 

How old were you when you started playing volleyball and what got you started?

I started playing volleyball when I was 15 years old. I wanted to play because watching the sport was so exciting, I admired the players—and I was always told to play volleyball because of my height (5 feet, 11 inches). 

What was your favorite thing about being on the Lakeland girls volleyball team?

It was all my teammates. We were always able to laugh and have fun while playing our favorite sport together and learning each practice and match.

What was your favorite team activity or pre- or post-match ritual?

My favorite team activity was our pre-match huddle, to calm everyone’s nerves and get our heads in the match.

Who has been your biggest role model?

My dad, because he was a multi-sport athlete and was always active during high school. He actively assists in my skills and has taught me how to be a better athlete. 

Tell us one thing about yourself that not a lot of people know.

That I started volleyball only two years ago. 

What do you plan to do after high school?

I’m going to play volleyball in college and graduate with a degree. 

What’s your favorite sports team?

Louisville women’s volleyball. 

What was your favorite music to listen to while warming up for a match?

It was rap.

If you could pick one place to visit on vacation that you’ve never been to, where would you go?

It would be Barbados. 

What would you say to a young athlete about trying out for the Lakeland girls volleyball team?

To work hard in making yourself better and to challenge yourself. Playing for a school team is an amazing opportunity and experience to grow and create new bonds.

I didn’t make the JV team in 10th grade, so I trained and believed in myself and later I was able to make the varsity team in 11th grade. Always give it your all, no matter the outcome.