For this edition of The Forge, we have chosen to highlight star volleyball player Tessa de Albergaria. She is the captain of the Varsity Girls Volleyball team as well as an exceptional student with a 4.75 GPA. This is her third year on the varsity volleyball team. She won a CIF championship during her sophomore season. 

When asked who her idol is, she said, “Elena Scott (the libero for Louisville University) because she is the fastest and most consistent college libero I have seen.” Elena Scott really inspires her to work hard everyday.

Her most memorable moment was winning a National Championship last summer. She was elected to the all-tournament team, and was spoken about in the SCVA Prep article on setters and liberos. In 2023, she was placed on the JVA watch list. Her club team placed 3rd in the PNQ Open. 

Last season, she helped lead the dons to a 25-9 record and a 13-1 league title. Unfortunately, they lost in the 3rd round of last season’s playoffs and as a young team, de Albergaria claims they, “…took it as a learning experience.” 

The Dons are currently 13-5 with a 6-1 record in  league. She has committed to playing volleyball for George Washington University in the fall of 2024. 

When asking her about how being a student athlete is difficult she said, “Having to maintain good time management and keep your grades up while performing to the best of your abilities is a challenge.” She led the team in digs and is on her path to leading the team in digs this year as well. As the season winds down they hope to be peaking right around playoff time. She has a very promising volleyball career ahead of her.

Photo Credit: Jacob Sturm