Gloria Slavik made history on Jan. 30 when she signed a letter of intent, formally accepting a college volleyball scholarship and committing to play for Cedar Crest College in Pennsylvania next year.
With her signature, Slavik “became the first NCAA athlete in the history of Basilica High School — a milestone moment for our entire school community,” said principal Robert Wright, who also happens to be the volleyball coach. “Gloria embodies the mission of every Mariner. She is a student marked by academic curiosity, deep involvement in her faith community, and a competitive spirit that is unmistakable on the volleyball court. She is the definition of a well-rounded student.”
After completing eighth grade at Basilica, Gloria spent one year at Key West High School, but returned to the Basilica School the following year, when the Catholic high school launched its first-ever junior varsity volleyball program, defeating Key West High School three times before advancing to varsity competition the following year.
“From that point forward, Gloria has been a leader and a powerful force on our volleyball team for the past three years,” Wright said. “While she has primarily played the position of setter, Gloria has proven invaluable across the court — as a defensive specialist, an outside hitter and wherever else her team needed her. For an athlete of her stature, her vertical leap is nothing short of remarkable. Beyond volleyball, Gloria has never missed an opportunity to participate, contribute and elevate our school — whether in athletics, or service to others. She leads by example in everything she does. And while Gloria will certainly be missed, she leaves behind a legacy of excellence and faith that we hope many students here today will strive to follow.”
