A quarter century after leading Gonzaga Prep volleyball to its first state championship match, co-captains Jill Paras-Stewart `01 and Keva Sonderen `01 are back on the court—this time as coaches. Their story is one of grit, renewed friendship, and the enduring pursuit of excellence that continues to shape Bullpup volleyball today.
The story of that season went from ordinary, finishing in the middle of the GSL standings, to extraordinary when the team fought its way through regionals as an underdog, advancing to state and defeating both Mead and Lewis & Clark before falling to Kentlake in the championship match. Their grit and perseverance became a real-life Rocky Balboa story. It was a team that refused to quit and clawed its way to the highest finish at state before—and since—in 50 years of volleyball at Prep. It was the culmination of nearly a decade of shared sweat, bruises, and belief. 
Sonderen and Paras-Stewart hadn’t seen one another in years when Sonderen reached out and asked Paras-Stewart if she’d help with Prep volleyball this season. Sonderen is a program assistant, and Paras-Stewart co-coaches the junior varsity team. “I’m a competitive person, and the pursuit of excellence by way of Gonzaga Prep still rages on within me,” said Paras-Stewart. She knew she wanted to help the next generation of players chase that same goal—a state title that still feels like unfinished business.
When the two reconnected, it was as if no time had passed at all. “We immediately picked up where we left off.” Jill recognized a deep bond with her former teammate even after so much time had passed. “We shared something, a different and unique human experience with one another, one that many people on this planet could only dream and hope for. We went to battle together and fought like warriors for one common cause.”
The 2000 squad was fortunate to have inspiring role models and teammates from earlier teams. “Kathleen Davey `99, Lisa VanGimert `00, and Megan (Fitzsimmons) Johnston `99 led by example and never made anyone feel like an outsider,” says Sonderen. ” The seniors on the 2000 team had played together for several years both at Prep and in club volleyball. They were able to hold each other accountable and respected what each brought to the team. “Gonzaga Prep puts the preparation and the development of the whole person at the forefront. Through self-reflection, retreats, and service work, you are constantly learning and growing your skills to first lead yourself and then others,” says Sonderen.
Recalls Sonderen, “during that season, we were each other's friends and camarades regardless of social groups or age. We were each other's mental health professionals. We learned to laugh and cry together, but most importantly, as a student-athlete, you learn grit. To accept and embrace the grind, because that's what elite athletes and competitors do. You show up every day with a common purpose—the pursuit of excellence.” The pursuit of excellence motivates both coaches in their roles to inspire this year’s team to aim high. Each of the last three seasons, the Lady Pups have earned a trip to the 4A State tournament in Yakima, but have come home empty-handed. This year’s team has been ranked in the top 10 all season and has won both the SunDome Invitational and the Sheridan-Welch Classic. They are striving for more.
Advice for student-athletes today: As an upperclassman, embrace your mentorship role by ensuring all are included, regardless of age. If you are truly committed to ensuring everyone on the team feels valued and a part of something great, extra effort must be made to build a positive and trusting rapport with all members of the team. You may not connect with your teammates on a bestie level, and that's okay. Shine YOUR light and the right people will find you. Also, if you don't prioritize taking care of your body, you are letting your team down. Sleep, nutrition, maintaining your mental health, and somehow making time here and there for friends and school work is not easy for anyone, but do your best to enjoy the ride. Finally, give yourself grace when life gets overwhelming, and remember it's okay to ask for a hug.
