The 2011 Class Favorites -- College Park's Michelle Griffith

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“Most Likely to Lead”

Michelle Griffith, College Park Volleyball

For College Park senior Michelle Griffith, volleyball is a lifestyle. In the hotbed that is The Woodlands, it is all about outdoing your neighbor to secure bragging rights amongst powerhouse programs.

After falling to their rival in the third round of the playoffs last season, the standout setter refuses to take the backseat to the defending state runner-up -- The Woodlands High School.

“We are always competitive with The Woodlands because we are always compared to them,” said Griffith. “We made a good run in the playoffs but our season ended at the hands of our rival. We aren’t going to let that happen again this year.”

Griffith will play a critical role on the Lady Cavaliers this season as they have lofty expectations. As the senior captain, Griffith will set one of the dominant outside hitters in the country in Ohio State-commit Katie Mitchell.

Despite playing in such a competitive district, Griffith points to the team chemistry as a crucial component for the schools’ success.

“I love my team and we get along really well off of the court which helps a lot,” said Griffith. “We didn’t do as well as we wanted to last season in district but we got to the third round of the playoffs and ended up losing to our rival. This season I think we have what it takes to get to the next level.”

To stay in shape during the summer, Griffith splits her time between her club team, Texas Pride, and the pool. In addition to competing at national volleyball tournaments, the senior spends about three months of the summer competing as a swimmer. Her athletic nature and drive has allowed her to better her stamina and improve her game both mentally and physically.

Following her senior season at College Park, Griffith will take her talents just a few miles north to play collegiate volleyball at Sam Houston State. With the opportunity to make an immediate impact as a freshman, the decision to make a verbal commitment was a no-brainer.

“It’s close to home and I am really close with my family so I wanted to be able and come back when I need to,” said Griffith. “I love the coaching staff and they have the same competitive attitude and willingness to work hard that I have.”

With a bright future on the horizon, it’s all about the present for Griffith and the Lady Cavs and their quest to leave their mark as a dominant force in the greater Houston area.