The setter’s role demands more than delivering a clean ball to a hitter. It requires awareness, adaptability and a steady presence when a match refuses to follow the script. For Chickasha High School junior Nahla Alexander, those same qualities shape the way she approaches volleyball, tennis, academics and service to others.
Alexander competes in volleyball as a setter and occasionally as a defensive specialist. On the tennis court, she plays doubles alongside the same partner she has teamed with since her freshman year. Whether she is helping direct an offense on the volleyball court or building chemistry with a doubles partner, Alexander values the ability to adjust.
“Mental flexibility, discipline, and the ability to adapt have been necessary for success in my sports,” Alexander said. “Sports don’t always go as expected, so I’ve learned to adjust, learn from mistakes, and keep improving instead of letting setbacks discourage me.”
Her motivation is rooted in gratitude. Alexander wants to honor the people who have invested their time, effort and encouragement into her development.
“I’m motivated by the need to prove to all who put effort into my development that it was not for nothing,” she said.
Among her greatest influences are her parents, Coach Clay and Coach Gardener. Her mother has taught her to be unapologetically herself, while her father has modeled the importance of staying grounded and “not taking the bait of Satan.” Coach Clay has helped Alexander understand leadership, and Coach Gardener has shown her the value of extending kindness to everyone.
Alexander also credits her mother, Mrs. Alexander, as the teacher who has made the greatest impact on her life. During middle school, her mother created a safe, welcoming environment where she could relax and be herself.
While competition brings plenty of memorable moments, Alexander’s favorite part of her athletic career has come through giving back. Helping with middle school volleyball practice each morning stands out as her career highlight, providing an opportunity to encourage younger players and contribute to the program’s future.
Alexander enjoys the intensity of facing Tecumseh, saying the energy between both teams and their teammates is “electric” whenever they meet. In practice, she most enjoys competing with Ava Brown, who continually challenges her and makes every matchup entertaining.
Away from athletics, Alexander is active in the Junior Optimist International Club and the CHS Junior Council. Balancing those commitments with school requires time management, focus and a commitment to academic success.
When she represents Chickasha, Alexander understands that she carries more than a uniform onto the court.
“Representing my school and community means I must take responsibility for positively representing Chickasha and showing anyone watching what our school and community stand for,” she said.
