Salinas Leads RT-C to Big Upset on The Court Then Runs to District Title

Round Top-Carmine volleyball player and cross-country runner Maggie Salinas performs at such a level in both sports that has put her on top of the pack. In a recent win against number one ranked Fayetteville on the volleyball court, Salinas recorded a team-high 24 digs. The very next day, she placed first in the 1A district crosscountry meet to win individually and also propel her team to a gold medal. “Maggie is kind of our quarterback when it comes to defense,” said Round Top-Carmine head volleyball coach Catie Carney. “She’s a crucial part and it is absolutely her goal to make sure that a ball doesn’t hit the floor. As far as volleyball goes, she’s dynamic to our team and we’d be much different without her. As far as overall RTC athlete, she puts effort into everything she does and it’s with 100%. She’s gonna make a run in cross-country this year. Hopefully get her time down and go to state, then we’ll see what volleyball season does.”

Salinas’ outstanding work in two sports has made her our selection for this editions Athlete of the Week.

Question: What are the perks of playing more than one sport?

Answer: “Playing more than one sport, you can really show what you bring. Especially since they’re two different sports. It just really shows how much effort you can put into sports you really like.”

Question: Which do you like better, volleyball or crosscountry and why?

Answer: “Honestly, I think they’re both equally my favorite. Sometimes, volleyball can be a little challenging since you have some off days, but cross-country as well you get really tired, so I prefer volleyball over cross-country some days. But it could be equally the same other days, too.”

Question: Your sister Ilse was also a Athlete of the Week, what kind of advice has she given you when it comes to sports?

Answer: “With her going to state in multiple events, she really inspires me to be the same and I want to be like her.”

Question: What are the keys to playing good defense in volleyball?

Answer: “You just have to know where you’re at, know what the other team is planning, and just read and get there fast. Be moving all the time.”

Question: If you could have one thing in your possession, what would it be?

Answer: “A state medal. I would love that.”

Question: Where’s a place you like to go in your free time?

Answer: “In my free time, I love to go swimming. Swimming is really fun for me and just going to the lake with my family is amazing.”

Question: How are you able to stay in shape for athletics?

Answer: “Every single day after school, since I’m trying to become better in cross-country, I run two miles. So maybe that has helped me this year.”

Question: Who’s a significant person you’ve met that you’ll always remember meeting?

Answer: “I would say Ava Myers. She is a really good volleyball player. She used to come here and she still comes here during the summer and helps me out with my reading and passing. So she’s a really important person in my volleyball career.”

Question: What’s your favorite thing about being an athlete?

Answer: “Just all the support that your community gives you and your family as well. They know how much work you put in every single day, so it’s just really nice to see at the end of the day your work has paid off.”

Question: How does Round Top-Carmine stand out from other schools?

Answer: “It’s just really our program and our community as well. We’re all like a big family and we all know each other, so we can lean on each other for support. It’s just really, really nice.” Salinas has brought ultimate success to Round Top-Carmine and looks to accomplish even more.