There are setters and there are setters who can do a lot of roofing work.
Bryanne Soares’ success as a defensive force at the net is one of the many reasons why Oral Roberts took an interest. Soares signed with the Golden Eagles on Wednesday morning at the letter-of-intent signing ceremony hosted by Education 1st at the Sheraton Waikiki.
“I just got back from my visit two days ago,” she said.
Kamehameha setter Bryanne Soares just visited @OralRobertsU over the weekend. Today, she signed with the Golden Eagles. @HawaiiPrepWorld @KSKAthletics @KSgirlsvolley @KSNews #LOIday #education1st pic.twitter.com/cqeapYT8TW
— Paul Honda (@PupulePaul) November 13, 2019
Playing time might arrive sooner than later for Soares. ORU is 7-21 so far this season, including 3-11 in The Summit League. The roster includes a sophomore and a freshman at setter.
Soares recorded 16 assists and three digs against Kapolei in the Division I state quarterfinals against Kapolei. In a sweep of Moanalua, she dished out 36 assists with seven digs and two kills.
In the state final, Soares had 50 assists, three digs and three kills as Kamehameha rallied past Punahou in four sets to win the championship.
“Personally, I worked on my vertical because I’m a tri-setter and I worked to play the six rotations. You just train hard. You work on what you’re good at,” Soares said. “Hawaii girls are known for their defense, so I’ve really worked at it the past few years. The coaches recognize that I can play defense and I can play front row.”
She knows exactly where young players are coming from if they’re not quite the prototypical height and length.
“I really encourage kids to, even though you’re undersized,” Soares said. “Strengthen your weakness and you’ll be there.”
Soares was one of 12 players to sign letters of intent in girls volleyball at Wednesday’s ceremony. Five of the 12 are Kamehameha student-athletes.
For a full list, click here.
Smart and articulate. She led Kamehameha Schools with precision. From last year when she did play till this year you can see she had a blue collar workers mentality. Probably most improved player. She trusted her hitters to make plays. She has a bright future. Example of someone not limiting herself based on physical stature.
Mahalo Deel Rod for the positive feedback. She has been a diamond in the rough and has faced many challenges. She had many occasions where she’s doubted herself but we’ve always saw our daughter’s potential. We’ve always encouraged her that her struggles will be her best asset as it has molded her into this scholar athlete. To be honest, we all believed that she would be playing at a D2 college but Oral Roberts coaching staff had recognized her work ethics and potential, hence, offering her a scholarship. We are so proud of our daughter and encourages athletes of all sports to do their best even when the odds are against you.