-Messenger photo by Britt Kudla Josie Huss of St. Edmond goes up for a spike against Hampton-Dumont on Thursday

The Huss name carries quite a bit of pressure with it, especially on the St. Edmond volleyball court.

That never bothered Gael senior Josie Huss, though, as she embraced following in the footsteps of cousins Hannah and Livi Huss.

Huss recently concluded her SEHS career on the court, leaving her own legacy behind.

“I strive to be the best and live up to that name, whether it’s in the classroom or on the court,” she said. “I got the chance to play with Hannah and Livi for a year and it was amazing. I took everything they taught me and applied it to my last two years with the program.

“My family is full of athletes that have so much wisdom and love for the sports they play and that’s what motivated me to do my best.”

A three-year starter and four-year varsity regular, Huss was led by another family member, her aunt, head coach Dee Huss.

“It’s been amazing,” she said. “Coach Huss has supported me and helped me grow into the player I am today. She has always been there for me and believed in me when I doubted myself. It was a lot of tough love let me tell you, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

As she has done several times over the past two seasons, Huss recorded double digits in kills to lead the Gaels in their regional opener. She finished her career with 452 kills and 520 digs.

Huss had a career-high 174 kills this season to go along with 183 digs. She was one of five seniors on a roster filled with underclassmen who watched her on and off the court.

“Work hard and play the game with passion,” Huss said. “Persevere through every obstacle that stands in your way. Every game you play, like it like your last. Never doubt yourself and always be encouraging, and bring up everyone else so they can all play the game they love.

“That is the impression I have tried to leave on the program and my teammates.”

Huss has been working towards her academics, enrolling in the North Central Iowa Career Academy. She plans to continue her education at Iowa Central before completing a degree in athletic training at a university.

“It has meant a lot to be a Gael,” she said. “I have been able to grow my faith while working hard in the classroom and on the court. I have been able to get to know everyone in my school and create a bond with my classmates.

“Being a Gael has taught me to do the best in everything I do, and do the things I love with everything I got.”

Vacation destination: Australia.

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

My sports role model: my brother, David Tann.

My everyday role model: my parents.

I can’t go a day without: my phone.

Nickname: JHUSS.

Most heated rivalry: Bishop Garrigan.

Favorite road trip: the quick trip to Manson.

What are you listening to right now? Juice WRLD.

Favorites…

Team: Iowa Hawkeyes.

Class: Nutrition.

Movie: The Hate U Give.

Book: The Fault in Our Stars.

Phone app: Snapchat.