Metea Valley’s Caroline Candela Brings Energy and Consistency

Caroline Candela, a junior libero for Metea Valley, stands out on the court with her vibrant energy and unwavering defense. Although only 5-foot-2 and often obscured by taller teammates, Candela’s voice and presence make a significant impact during matches.

New to varsity but sharing responsibilities with senior Sienna Bialek, Candela has impressed with her defensive skills for the Mustangs, who are currently 11-14. Her aggressive playing style motivates her teammates to push harder.

She’s awesome, said Metea Valley coach Dave Macdonald. You talk about certain volleyball players that just have no care for their bodies, essentially, when they’re playing defense. She’s all over the place.

Candela’s dedication is evident to teammates like junior outside hitter Ishana Harish, who finds Candela’s energy contagious. She always is the loudest person, Harish noted. After every point, she always has the most energy. Whether we lose or gain a point, she lifts our spirits.

During Metea Valley’s recent setback against Downers Grove North, Candela played a crucial role in uplifting her team between sets. Despite losing 25-11, 27-25, she encouraged her teammates for a more aggressive second set.

We needed to be much louder, Candela emphasized. We came into the first set quiet. I told the team to come in firing, not let the first set loss affect us.

The second set showcased this mentality. Harish contributed with a kill and block, and senior Inaaya Hashwani followed with an ace, leveling the score at 3-3. Candela’s consistent defense and service, contributing nine digs, three service points, and an ace, propelled the Mustangs to a temporary lead.

Despite the comeback, the Mustangs’ inconsistency persisted, as they faltered in maintaining their four-point lead, eventually losing their fifth consecutive match.

Candela remains unfazed by setbacks and maintains her enthusiasm for volleyball, even when flying under the radar.

Caroline has been playing awesome, coach Macdonald affirmed. She excels in the gritty aspects of defense that many shy away from. Despite injuries, she remains relentless on the court.

Candela’s love for defense and serve receive propels her enthusiasm. Originally involved in gymnastics and basketball, her passion solidified when she began volleyball in seventh grade. The camaraderie with her teammates brings her joy.

Looking ahead, Candela aspires to continually improve and play volleyball for as long as possible—a prospect her coach welcomes.

She has that next level of consistency, Macdonald said. Hopefully, she continues to improve.

Matt Le Cren provides freelance reporting.