Tri-West rising junior Caroline Ward has made a name for herself as one of Indiana’s most skilled and determined volleyball players. Recently committing to Southern Methodist University (SMU), Ward’s journey from undersized hitter to high-level recruit is marked by hard work, growth, and a mindset grounded in team-first values.
Finding the Perfect Fit at SMU
For Ward, the decision to commit to SMU was about more than just a name or location — it was about fit.
“I knew it was the right fit for me athletically because when I looked at their roster and commits, I noticed that none of them were huge players,” Ward said. “I’m technically considered an undersized hitter, so when I saw this, I knew I would fit in.”
What stood out even more to her was SMU’s ability to compete with some of the top programs in the nation.
“They were doing the same things that programs with 6’5” girls were doing. Seeing this, I knew I’d fit in perfectly.”
A Game Built on Versatility
Ward’s versatility on the court has been key to her development. She started her club career as a middle, which helped refine her quickness and timing. Eventually transitioning to the right side, she embraced learning the back-row responsibilities — something she continues to develop at the elite level with Circle City.
“My first few years of club I was a middle, which really developed my speed. Then when I became an opposite, I learned a different part of the game in the back row,” she said.
That commitment to growth included private training sessions at Boilers Volleyball Club and taking on a six-rotation role as a freshman at Tri-West.
“My game grew numbers my first two years! And now that I’m playing at Circle City and am a junior in high school, I have huge priorities in serve receive.”
A Right-Handed Right Side with the Drive to Lead
One of Ward’s proudest attributes is her ability to perform at a high level in a position that often favors left-handed players.
“I take pride in just being able to be a right-handed right side. It’s definitely a hard position to play — it’s the same thing as a lefty hitting on the left side,” she explained.
With her junior season approaching, she’s focused on fine-tuning her back-row play and continuing to elevate her game.
Leadership Beyond the Court
Ward’s impact extends beyond stat lines. After missing the first month of last season due to injury, she embraced her role from the sidelines — lifting her team up and staying engaged.
“A goal for myself is to own the position I’m in no matter what it is. During that time on the bench, I was still able to uplift my team,” she said. “I want to continue doing this no matter where I’m at.”
Her goals for the season reflect that same team-first mentality:
“A big team goal I have is to play our game and not let anything or anyone get in our way.”
With her commitment to SMU locked in and a relentless drive to grow, Caroline Ward is poised for a huge junior campaign — and ready to lead by example on and off the court.