For the first two years of Ali Hirsh's high school career, the Port Byron volleyball team did not win a single game. However, last season a new coach, Stacie Hirsh (Ali's mother), was brought in, and the Panthers reaped immediate dividends, finishing with an 8-10 record. This year, the first-team All-League setter has propelled her team to a 10-5 record. Hirsh's success is not limited to athletics. She is also a regular on the honor roll and is a member of the National Honor Society.

What other sports do you play, and which is your favorite?

I play field hockey and softball. Field hockey is my favorite.

What awards have you received for your athletic achievements (besides volleyball)?

My other awards are in field hockey. I was named team MVP and I also made first team All-League this past season.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spare time - what's that?

What schools are you looking at?

I'd like to go to Cortland, but I'm also looking at other SUNY schools. I want to study sports medicine.

Who has had the biggest influence on you in sports?

My field hockey coach, Angie Hargreaves.

What's your most memorable moment in your athletic career?

This year when we went to the Carrier Dome for field hockey.

For your first two years of volleyball, you didn't win a match. Last year, your team went 8-10, and this year, you're doing even better. What happened to cause such a dramatic turnaround?

A new coach.

Can a new coach really make that big of a difference?

Definitely. She has emphasized the basics for us. We have focused more on the fundamentals of the sport.

Of course, it's always nice to win. But what has it been like for you to take part in the resurrection of an ailing program?

It's been a lot of fun. Not so much at first, because we were losing. But I think the wins we get now are much more special. We have more pride in our team.

What's it like having your mom as a coach?

It's not always so fun. (smiles) And I think I'll leave it at that.