NewsTribune Athlete of the Week: Henry-Senachwine setter Hope Self

Henry-Senachwine senior setter Hope Self hit a career milestone last week.

Self recorded her 1,000th career assist as she helped the Mallards to the consolation championship at the Tri-County Conference Tournament.

Self had 17 assists, 10 points and five aces in the consolation semifinals then had 30 assists, six points, two aces, four kills and a block as Henry outlasted Putnam County in a three-set thriller in the consolation final.

“Hope’s greatest strengths are her energy and leadership,” Henry coach Rita Self said. “On the court, she is her teammates’ biggest cheerleader, giving credit where credit is due. She is the first server for our team and really sets the tone. This past week she had 10 aces in the conference tournament. Hope is a great all-around player who has worked really hard to become a force at the net running the 5-1. I know she is looking forward to competing with many of her best friends in the postseason of her senior year in volleyball.”

For her performance, Hope Self was voted the NewsTribune Athlete of the Week, sponsored by Central Bank again and Witek Wealth Management.

Self answered a few questions from NewsTribune sports editor Kevin Chlum.

Do you have any nicknames?

Some people call me Hopester or Hopie, but most people just call me Hope.

What do you like about playing volleyball?

My favorite thing about playing volleyball is the bonds I get to form with my teammates. I also love how fast-paced the game is.

What did it mean to reach 1,000 career assists?

I never really thought about getting 1,000 assists, but it felt so rewarding to hit that milestone. I am very grateful for all my teammates and coaches (past and current) for helping me get there.

What is your favorite sports memory?

My favorite sports memory is from volleyball my freshman year when we (the No. 8 seed) beat Roanoe (the No. 1 seed) in the Tri-County Conference Tournament.

Besides volleyball season, what do you like about the fall?

My other favorite thing about the fall is getting to run cross country. I got to run last year because of COVID, and this year our school let us do both volleyball and cross country. I also love hanging out with my friends.

What is the best Halloween costume you ever wore?

One year I was a blow up dinosaur and that was really fun.

What is your favorite Halloween candy?

Skittles and Reese’s.

What are your can’t miss TV shows?

Friends and New Girl.

What are your plans after high school?

After high school I plan on attending a four-year university majoring in mathematics and double minoring in education and computer science.

What are your thoughts on your performance last week?

Overall, I was really happy with how I played last week, as well as the team. We ended the week exactly where we wanted to be.