From California to Ohio; Julia Bradley's path to success
by Jim Sawin, sports information intern
CEDARVILLE, Ohio (11-14-2006) - When someone mentions California I picture elegant beaches, blinding sand, and tan bodies on the land or on a surfboard. Ultimate relaxation comes to mind when thinking about California, so what would inspire a talented young volleyball player to spend four years in Ohio when having the opportunity to stay in the Golden State?
Julia Bradley, a senior middle hitter from Valencia, CA, made the long trip to Ohio four years ago to play volleyball for Cedarville University. Bradley initially did not consider Cedarville as a top college choice, but politely told Head Coach Teresa Clark she would keep the school as an option.
"I was recruited by The Master's College, but in that process the coach ended up leaving so that all fell through," said Bradley. "My decision ultimately came down to Westmont (in Santa Barbara, CA) and Cedarville. Westmont was one of the schools that I had wanted to go to since I was a little girl, but when the time came to make my decision, I didn't feel that it was where God wanted me."
The AMC South Division Freshman of the Year got off to a great start in college, leading the team in solo blocks, block assists, and attack percentage. She has improved each year and recently broke two school records on September 23 of the current season. The NAIA All-American now owns the kills and blocks records at CU, formerly set by Heather van der Aa in 2001.
"I never even had the goal of breaking any school records when I came in, and it never crossed my mind that I would be able to do it," said the senior leader. "It's just a testament to my team and the talent God has brought to Cedarville. You can't get a kill without a good pass and great set, so I really can't take all the credit, but I admit I was excited to set the records."
The Yellow Jackets are having another outstanding season. They are currently sitting at 42-7 having already repeated as NCCAA champions with the NAIA Region IX Tournament coming up.
"Our team goals [for this season] include winning conference, repeating as NCCAA national champions, and making it out of pool play at NAIA nationals."
While Julia has had many fond memories as a member of the volleyball squad, her most memorable moments took place on the team's mission trips because of the impact it has had on her life and others.
"We have been to Costa Rica twice and the Dominican Republic once," commented Julia. "It was amazing to see God working in the hearts of these girls and giving us the words to say. We left Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic with a passion for evangelism and the desire to share with teams back in the states."
And that is something both former coach Teresa Clark and current head coach Melissa Hartman have emphasized throughout their time at Cedarville.
"Ultimately, volleyball (or any sport) is the platform to win other players to Christ," said Coach Clark. "There are many methods or tools to use; however, the bottom line is that other players need to respect you on and off the court in order to desire to know about your Savior."
"I have such a high respect for Coach Clark; she is an amazing woman of God and a great mentor," stated Bradley. "Having Coach Hartman this past year has been great as well. She picked up right where Coach Clark left off."
Julia's volleyball and academic career is quickly coming to a close at Cedarville University. The senior marketing major doesn't know exactly what she wants to do after graduation, but she hopes to eventually combine her love of sports and marketing into one job.
And where might Julia end up after spending four years in Ohio? "I would love to go back to California," said the NCCAA national champ, "but I am willing to go wherever it is God wants me to go."
