A-K Valley Senior Spotlight: Freeport’s Grace Beach

By: Ted Sarneso
Monday, November 6, 2023 | 10:47 AM

When the Freeport girls volleyball team faced off with Mars on Oct. 16, the team thought it would be without senior setter Grace Beach.

Fifteen minutes before the bus was set to leave, Beach’s grandfather died.

Coach Tom Phillips heard the news and told Grace to stay with her family.

“I got a call from her father, and we did not think that Grace would be at the game,” Phillips said. “I said family matters most. Take care of that.”

Beach discussed it with her parents and made the decision to play.

“My parents encouraged me to go and play in the match because that’s what my grandpap would have wanted,” Beach said. “It was difficult, but I felt he gave me the mental strength to push through.”

Beach’s presence on the court helped the Yellowjackets (19-1, 14-0) beat a very tough Class 3A foe.

“She stepped up and had a magnificent game,” Phillips said. “I give her so much credit. It was so emotional for her. Her being there showed her teammates she wasn’t going to let them down. They rallied around her, and we ended up sweeping Mars in three sets.”

The metal fortitude Beach displayed in that match exemplified why Phillips chose her as a leader on a team that lost only three sets in the regular season, all in a 3-0 loss against Class 4A Seneca Valley.

“She has been a magnificent leader on this team,” Phillips said. “When people talk about leadership and stepping up and being an inspiration, Grace is the embodiment of that.”

Added Beach: “I’m good at pushing through adversity. It always hasn’t come easy, but my parents have taught me that I’m tougher than I think. My family has passed those qualities on to me, and I’m forever grateful to them.”

At the start of the WPIAL playoffs, Beach took some time for a Senior Spotlight Q-and-A:

What preparation did you go through in taking over for Cassidy Dell as the main setter?

The loss of Cassidy left a big hole, and I had to work very hard. I played during the offseason for Renaissance Volleyball Club in Armstrong, and it was an incredible opportunity for me. It definitely prepared me for a larger role.

How did it feel to win the state title last year?

It was indescribable. I don’t know if it’s really hit me yet. I feel an immense sense of pride to be a part of this program.

What has been the reason for the success of the Freeport volleyball program?

The mentality that Coach Phillips enforces in his players. We refuse to lose because losing is not an option. He creates a sense of healthy, but competitive, competition. It makes kids want to work harder during the offseason to be better the next season.

What’s it like being a leader for a successful team?

All the seniors on the team have been great leaders. I stand out because I’m the most vocal. Not just voicing positive things but holding people accountable. I’m the voice that speaks on behalf of the rest of the seniors.

What hobbies do you enjoy?

I am extremely crafty. I volunteer. I play the piano. I love to read and enjoy the outdoors. I also love hanging with my family and friends.

Any college plans?

I want to stay in the Pittsburgh area. The furthest I’ve applied is Gannon University. My top three schools are Duquesne University, Saint Vincent College and Gannon.

What do you want to study?

I want to be a biology major and try to apply for a physician’s assistant.

What is a fact about yourself that would surprise people?

How outgoing and carefree I am. I’m not as serious as I come off as sometimes.

What’s one piece of advice you would want to leave your teammates before you graduate?

Embrace and soak in all the time you have at high school. Even though you think practice stinks and you don’t want to go, these are going to be the best moments of your life.

Tags: Freeport