Improvement is more than a goal for Catoosa High School junior Arianna White; it is the mindset she carries into every volleyball practice, soccer match, and school day.

White competes in two demanding sports for the Indians: volleyball and soccer. As a setter in volleyball, she helps direct the offense and create opportunities for her teammates. On the soccer field, she takes on a different kind of leadership role as a goalkeeper, where communication, awareness, and confidence are essential.

No matter the sport, White believes success comes from the same foundation.

“Being a good teammate and working hard, even on the toughest days,” White said of what it takes to succeed.

That team-first mentality has shaped some of the most meaningful moments of her athletic career. White said her favorite memories have come through winning important games alongside her teammates and seeing the work put in during practices pay off when it matters most.

“My highlight moments have been winning important games with my teammates and seeing all of our hard work come together,” White said. “Those moments remind me why I love volleyball and why being part of a team means so much to me.”

Competition is another part of what makes high school athletics memorable. For White, matchups with Verdigris carry an added layer of excitement because she knows many of the athletes on the other side.

“Verdigris, because I’m friends with a lot of their players,” White said when asked which opponent she most enjoys beating.
White also values the relationships built within her own program. She said teammate Emma is someone she especially enjoys working with in practice because of the positive impact she has on White’s development as a player. “I feel like she helps me become a better player,” White said.

She also recognizes the teammates whose value may not always show up in statistics. White pointed to Laura as one of the least appreciated players on the team because of the encouragement she consistently brings to others.

“Laura, because she is always uplifting no matter the circumstances,” White said.

White credits her teammates and coaches among her biggest influences. Their daily support and willingness to push her have helped motivate her to improve, both individually and as part of the group.

Away from athletics, White is involved in National Honor Society and Student Council. Balancing sports, schoolwork, and campus activities requires discipline, something she has learned through managing a full schedule.

“Staying organized, managing my time, and being responsible with my priorities help me balance everything,” White said.
In the classroom, Ms. Coppedge has made a lasting difference in White’s life. White appreciates the teacher’s investment in students and her ability to make lessons understandable.

“Ms. Coppedge because she truly cares about our education and always explains things really well,” White said.
For White, representing Catoosa means more than competing hard during a match or game. It means carrying herself with character, treating opponents with respect and making the school community proud in every setting.

“Working hard, showing good sportsmanship, and making the community proud on and off the court/field,” White said.

As White continues through her junior year, her motivation remains simple but powerful: keep improving. With the support of her coaches, teammates, teachers, and community, she is committed to making the most of every opportunity in volleyball, soccer, and beyond.