GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Get to know opposite hitter Sherridan Atkinson in the 12th and final edition of our “Offseason Conversation” series with the Grand Rapids Rise. Atkinson talks about signing with the Rise, experience gained playing overseas, her background as a performer, and much more.
How are you feeling with Rise preseason training camp a few days away?
Very excited! It’s been a long offseason, so I’m ready to get back on the court.
Talk me through your decision to sign with the Rise.
Well, I’ve had some great conversations with Rise head coach Cathy George. The first time she called me was when she saw my name in the PVF free agent portal. She’d been following my career, and we hit it off right away. I just felt that the culture and the direction the team is heading in really aligned with what I want for my career.
At the start of November, you wrapped up an Athletes Unlimited campaign with 14 kills and two blocks in a three-set match. How much confidence does that give you heading into your first Pro Volleyball Federation season?
I wouldn’t say it gave me a huge confidence boost. I didn’t play as much, so I was focused more on just staying prepared and learning. But it was nice to get some solid performances in those matches. It’s always good to see how you stack up against top-level competition.
How closely did you follow PVF during its inaugural season?
I didn’t follow it too closely, but I watched the games I knew my friends were playing in. I was also focused on my own season. But, yeah, I was aware but didn’t watch too many games.
What impact can Rise fans expect Sherridan Atkinson to make on the court?
I’d say fans can expect a lot of energy from me. I’m a very aggressive player, and I like to show emotion on the court. I’m always fired up, and I think that energy translates into excitement for the team and the fans. I play with my heart on my sleeve. I have a great appreciation for the sport and I’m very grateful. I’m excited to bring my competitive nature into the League.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a 6-foot-5 opposite hitter?
I don’t know if there are any disadvantages. I think one of the advantages is that my height allows me to see the court well and hit over blocks. I can also cover a lot of ground, which is useful in defense. But, yeah, defense can also be a challenge sometimes — especially when it comes to digging certain shots. But overall, if I focus on moving fast and getting my timing right, it works out. The height advantage makes up for some of the challenges. And I don’t think there is a disadvantage. If you are trained defensively, everything is an advantage.
What insights or skills did you gain from playing five professional seasons in Greece, Turkey, and France?
Playing in Europe really opened my eyes to a higher level of play. It’s one thing to practice and compete in college, but when you’re on the international stage, you’re playing against the best players in the world. I got to play with the greats and learn from them. You really grow as a player just by being exposed to that. You learn new skills, strategies, and techniques, and it pushes you to elevate your game.
Best experience in Europe outside of volleyball?
I’d say the people I’ve met have been the best part. Whether it’s been my teammates or local friends, I’ve gotten to know so many different cultures. It’s amazing how sports can bring people together. I still stay in touch with a lot of my friends, and the friendships I’ve made will last a lifetime.
You grew up with a music and theatre background. How has that influenced your personal life and volleyball career?
I think both music and volleyball are forms of entertainment. Whether I’m playing an instrument or playing on the court, I’m performing. The stage might be different, but I always try to entertain and engage with my audience, whether it’s the fans in the stands or my teammates. Music taught me how to focus, and theater taught me how to perform under pressure — those skills translate directly to volleyball.
Lastly, in your opinion, what’s the most satisfying way to win a match point?
I like a block. There’s something so satisfying about stopping an opponent’s attack, especially when they hit it with all their power. Then watching it go straight down to the ground is my favorite.
Photo by Panathinaikos