Volleyball star Leylani Pese takes on the competition with grace

SHE has a dangerous spike, but Leylani Pese always takes on her opponents with grace.

Volleyballer Leylani Pese captained the NSW CHS team.

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SHE has a dangerous spike, but Leylani Pese always takes on her opponents with grace.

The representative volleyball player and Prairiewood High School student, 17, is the leader of the pack, captaining teams at school, zone and state levels to victory.

“I think my biggest achievement was playing for my state – that was really great,” Pese said. “Travelling to play is an honour.”

Volleyballer Leylani Pese.

Pese will soon travel to Tahiti with the Australian team for the Oceania under-19s volleyball competition. “We’re going in 52 days,” she said. “Not that I’m counting.”

Pese is a formidable competitor on the court, but still enjoys the simpler pleasures of her favourite sport.

“It’s a relaxing thing – it’s an escape and it’s fun to play,” she said.

“It’s also great to meet other people and to play alongside friends as well.”

Prairiewood High School teacher and coach Alison Poole said she was exceptionally proud of Leylani’s achievements to date.

“She is a fantastic player,” Poole said.

“She is extremely humble and gracious, and she has a really supportive family which has really helped her as well.”

Volleyballer Leylani Pese.

Pese’s long list of achievements include playing at local, zone, regional, state and national levels.

“She was the most valuable player at the championships in 2016, and was named in the touring championship side this year which she also captained,” Poole said.

“She captained the school and zone teams, and we are currently on our way to the regional championships – Leylani has certainly contributed greatly to that success.”

Pese is this week’s Local Sports Star nominee.

To nominate an outstanding sportsperson, visit localsportsstar.com.au.