York High School senior Ally Mann was recently chosen as the Athlete of the Month at Buffalo Wild Wings. Mann was not chosen for her appetite to consume spicy wings, but for her aptitude as a volleyball athlete, where she serves as a captain and friend as well.

Nominations are based on a balance of  exceptional athletic achievement, leadership attributes on and off the court, as well as being an exceptional teammate.

Mann believes that she has worked hard enough to merit the title. She emphasizes staying positive in life and on the court, and encourages her teammates to do the same.

“I think I have the qualities of a true leader,” said Mann. “I am a captain on the team and I live up to that title. I always try to bring up the team when we are down or losing a game. I try to stay positive even if I am not playing well.”

Not only does Mann work on the spirit of the team, she works to form a bond with each girl.  Although she plays a competitive sport, creating a positive environment that supports each athlete is one of the most important things to her.

“We have had no problems with drama or playing time problems,” said Mann. “Yes, our team is still competitive, but we work so well together that it doesn’t matter. We all bring each other up and support each other, and I think that’s really important.”

Mann is dedicated to her team, and the girls are more like family to her than fellow athletes.

“I try to organize bonding events such as pasta parties the day before the games,” said Mann. “We are all such good friends and I believe that is why we work so well together.  We are a family before we are a good team.”

Obviously Mann’s pasta parties have worked. Her team’s support for Mann has never been stronger.

“My teammates have been nothing but supportive,” said Mann. “I couldn’t have gotten this title without my teammates. I am very appreciative and they have been nothing but happy for me.”

With Mann as one of the captains on the team, she is sure to push the other girls hard. Her goals are lofty for the season, but considering the athletic and leadership talent on the team, they are likely to succeed.

“Our biggest goal is to go to state,” said Mann. “We have worked so hard these past couple years and this year is a big year for us considering there are seven graduating seniors. We are trying to hold a conference title!”

Mann and her volleyball team have experienced a lot of success in the past, and she is happy to showcase it. She knows that their achievements go past athletics, and the Athlete of the Month award only seems to illuminate that.

“I think York should be proud of the volleyball team,” said Mann. “We all work so well together and love being around each other. My team is like my second family and I feel so lucky to be a part of that. I am very honored to have been nominated for athlete of the month. It is a huge compliment and only makes me want to work harder.”