WINTER HAVEN – With an entirely new roster for 2024, Polk State Volleyball began a new era in search of leadership. First-year Head Coach Jessica Beal found it in her two sophomores.

Libero/setter Sofia Sanchez and outside hitter Rebeca Correa will be honored prior to the Eagles' Citrus Conference clash against Santa Fe College on Saturday as the program celebrates its annual Sophomore Day.

"They set the culture because of their experience and knowing what it takes to compete at the college level," Beal said of her sophomores. "Becca and Sofi have done an excellent job leading by example."

After beginning her career at Saint Augustine University, an NCAA Division II school in North Carolina, Sanchez has become a mainstay in the lineup for Polk State. She's played in 11 of 12 matches and made seven starts.

"The camaraderie with the girls here has been great," Sanchez said. "I went from a four-year university where I was the youngest player to one of the older players on the team. I like having that leadership role on and off the court."

After beginning her career at Hutchinson Community College, Correa's lone season at Polk State has been riddled with injury. Despite that, she's been willing to persevere.

"Becca works so hard," Beal said. "She's one of the most coachable kids I've ever had."

Limited to just eight matches so far, Correa seems to be finding her groove. She recorded a season-high seven digs in the Oct. 5 match at Daytona State College.

"I really like the chemistry of the group," Correa explained. "It was hard with a brand-new team, but we keep learning and improving together. Each person helps each other. We don't have star players, so we've had to play as a team."

Sanchez and Correa will be the first sophomore class to finish their careers under Beal. The head coach, they said, has tasked them with being leaders.

"She's always asking about us and telling us how we have to bring the energy," Correa added. "As sophomores, we had the experience of playing college volleyball before. This has been an amazing experience. This is my family now. This program is going to continue to get better."

Recruited as a setter, Sanchez has been forced to spend time at the libero position. Beal commended the Miami native on her selflessness.

"Sofi has excellent communication skills," the head coach noted. "She's a natural leader and does whatever is asked of her without hesitation."

Entering Saturday's match against Santa Fe, Sanchez ranks second on the team in assists per set (4.79) and fourth in digs per set (2.17).

"Coach has had an incredible impact on me," Sanchez reflected. "I moved to libero after setting my whole life. She gave me the confidence that I could do it. With a freshman-heavy team, she's brought us together and we've performed. I like having a coach I can look up to. She will make this program great."

While the two sophomores will remember their time on the court for Polk State, they're also grateful for the bonds they've made off of it.

"I thank Coach Beal for bringing me in," Sanchez said. "I've learned so much from her. She really helped me off the court as well. I thank my teammates for being so welcoming and the school and program for all they've done for me."

The sophomores offered advice for future Polk State players.

"I'd advise future players to keep their confidence," Correa urged. "You learn a lot of life lessons here – discipline, hard work. Work to accomplish your goals."

Saturday's match will be a pivotal one for two teams trying to capture a spot in the FCSAA Tournament. Sanchez and Correa both hope to continue their playing careers at four-year schools. Regardless of what's next, Beal offered parting advice.

"They should continue to better themselves as students, as humans, and as athletes," Beal concluded. "They have bright futures. I encourage them to keep working on their craft and getting better in everything they do."