Messenger photo by Britt Kudla Hannah Huss of St. Edmond tips the ball over the net against Eagle Grove in the Gael gym.

High school sports help create a family atmosphere.

That mantra especially rings true for For St. Edmond senior Hannah Huss.

Huss recently completed her Gael volleyball career alongside three cousins, while playing for her mother. St. Edmond won 17 matches — its most since the 2007 season — and reached a regional semifinal this past fall on the court.

“Getting to work with my mom, (Dee), has been such a blessing,” Huss said. “It’s been so much fun and I wouldn’t have it any other way. My family means the world to me, so to have three cousins (Livi Huss, Josie Huss and Erin Flattery) on the team really made the last two seasons very special.

“Playing the game I love with my family right there on the court is something I will cherish forever.”

Huss led the North Central Conference with 366 kills, averaging a league-best four per set. She also had 54 aces, served at a 91 percent clip, recorded 316 digs, 36 blocks and 17 assists.

“I was so young when my sisters (Danni and Nikki) were in high school that I never really knew how much dedication it took to be successful,” she said. “I didn’t realize all of the work it took to be a solid team. Everyone has to do their part and it takes a lot of passion and love for the game.

“You and your teammates have to truly care about each other. Now I know because I’ve learned from the best of the best. Hard work always pays off, and I believe it makes you a more confident player on the court.”

Along with reaching the 17-win mark, St. Edmond’s season also included a pair of postseason wins over Eagle Grove and on the road at IKM-Manning.

“The win over IKM-Manning meant everything,” Huss said. “With the game being so far away, everyone had to focus up and mentally prepare for how we were going to perform. Before loading the bus, we all met in the Chapel, which I thought was good. It reassured us all that God was by our side no matter what the outcome was.

“I’m very fortunate to be a Gael because we are not only able to incorporate our faith into everything we do, but it gives us the strength to keep pushing whenever doubt enters our minds. Monday’s win not only meant a lot to me and my teammates, but it meant a lot to my mom and Coach (Josephine) Alstott as well. Not only does my mom put in a huge amount of gym time during practices and games, but she is always working on new rotations, drills, watching film and driving to scout an opponent. The program has come a long way because of her dedication. I am so thankful for everyone that has supported her and St. Edmond volleyball.”

On the hardwood last year, Huss averaged five points per game, along with grabbing 100 rebounds. She also had 35 assists, 34 steals and 10 blocks. In the spring, she’ll join the Fort Dodge soccer squad after playing in all 14 games last year.

“Moving into basketball will be a fun transition,” Huss said. “I’m excited to take on the season with my teammates. I think we are ready to keep the momentum going and show that we can compete.”

Along with volleyball, basketball and soccer, Huss also participated in the summer weight room program for the past two years. She is a member of National Honor Society and is working to complete her requirements for the Gael Service Cord.

Huss was especially thankful for the summer training she received with head football coach Jon Borer and assistant Cory Naughton in the weight room.

“The summer weight room program really helped me get stronger physically as well as mentally,” Huss said. “I appreciate Coach Borer and Coach Naughton working with me and pushing me to get better every single day.

“They both did an awesome job and I appreciate all of the encouragement.”

She has yet to decide on her college plans, but does anticipate playing volleyball at the next level.

TIMEOUT WITH HANNAH HUSS

Vacation destination: Lake Tahoe.

People I would like to have dinner with: my cousin, Alli, and God.

It would surprise people that I: play the piano.

My sports role model: Anna Yung, my sisters, Danni and Nikki, and University of Minnesota volleyball alums Paige and Hannah Tapp.

My everyday role model: my parents, Mike and Dee.

I can’t go a day without: listening to music.

Nickname: Hannie.

Superstition: wearing my torn ankle brace on my right foot.

Most heated rivalry: Bishop Garrigan.

Favorite road trip: Clear Lake because I love long bus rides.

What are you listening to right now? Life Changes by Thomas Rhett.

Favorites…

Team: UNI volleyball and the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Class: Painting.

Movie: Lilo and Stitch.

Book or Magazine: The Fault in Our Stars.

Phone app: Instagram.