As a three year varsity member of both the Milken volleyball and basketball teams, Elyssa Schlossberg ’11 makes a huge impact on two courts.

Schlossberg, nicknamed “The Beast” by Sports Information Director Sergio Paredes, is a dominant force as the middle blocker for the Girls Varsity Volleyball team, excelling at her position because of her great athleticism and superb timing. A nightmare for opposing players, she has the ability to jump high enough to block virtually any hit.

“Having Elyssa in the middle is a big help to our team because it seems that when she is in the middle we always are successful,” Jordyn Schiff ’13, volleyball teammate, said.

So far this season, Schlossberg leads the team in blocking, knocking down an opposing player’s spike right at the net. However, Schlossberg isn’t just a one-year wonder; as a junior she garnered All-CIF honors as well as a spot on the all-tournament team for the 2009 Dig Pink Tournament.

Not only does Schlossberg excel in volleyball, but she is also a dynamo on the basketball court as well, leading the team in rebounds. There is no doubt that she is a viable offensive threat.

The same athleticism that allows Schlossberg to shine on the volleyball court is a big reason why Schlossberg holds the Milken record for rebounds in a single game with a whopping 21. A tenacious defender, she shuts down the opposing teams’ best interior offensive threat.

In fact, she was so impressive last year that the coaches in the league elected her to the first team all league as a junior. She has also displayed fine leadership qualities as a basketball player, co-captaining the Varsity team last year.

“Elyssa is the ultimate all around athlete.  She plays hard in ALL the games, does everything fundamentally correct in practice and is one of the best captains I have ever had in my 30 years of coaching.  Her dedication, commitment and perseverance are qualities that separate her from the rest. Elyssa leads her teammates by her work ethic and her desire to give her best at all times.  She deserves all the honors that come her way,” Barbara Iversen, basketball head coach, said.

As the volleyball season winds down, Schlossberg gears up for the upcoming basketball season. Not only does she want to advance far into the CIF playoffs for volleyball and make this year a memorable experience for the team, but she is also excited for her final basketball season at Milken.

“It’s funny– whenever someone asks me what my favorite sport is I’m never quite sure how to answer. During volleyball season I think that volleyball is absolutely my favorite sport but then during basketball season I reconsider,” Schlossberg said.