Athlete of the Week: Ana Bleeker

Ana Bleeker is a senior at Windermere High and plays for the Wolverine volleyball team. Bleeker recently helped lead her team to the Metro West Conference tournament championship and currently leads the team in kills. She has committed to play volleyball for the University of Georgia next year. 

How did it feel to win the Metro West Conference tournament? 

It felt great. It was a whole team effort, so to know that we can come out on top and beat some of the best teams in the area is pretty amazing and that we are the top team as of now. 

What separates this team from your last three years? 

This team has a much better chemistry. We’re all close on and off the court, and I think that has been what helped us in games and in pressure situations when we are down and need to come together as a team and come back. 

What made you want to choose Georgia to play volleyball? 

I love the program there. The coaches are amazing, the players are so fun to be around, (and) it’s a great school and campus in general. It felt good that they wanted me to be there and knowing that I was wanted. I was excited for that. 

What’s the ultimate goal before you graduate? 

The ultimate goal is to win states. We have a team that is a high-enough caliber to accomplish that. Right now, it’s to make it to the regional finals and get past that one spot we haven’t been able to pass (previously).  

What are some of your hobbies outside of volleyball? 

I like to bake; it’s fun. I made s’mores cookies before (the last game against Timber Creek). I also like hanging out with friends and going to the beach. 

What’s your favorite recipe to bake? 

Cookie brownies. 

What’s your favorite part about the fall? 

It’s not as hot anymore, so the weather is a lot nicer. There’s a lot of activities to do; we live in a great area that has so many things we can go out and do, such as Halloween Horror Nights, football games and fairs. 

Favorite TV/Netflix show? 

“The Carrie Diaries”

Favorite movie? 

“Ten Things I Hate About You” 

What is one thing about you that no one would expect to know? 

I’m half-Brazilian. I understand Portuguese, so my mom would always speak to me in Portuguese. I am not fluent in speaking the language, but I can pick up on a lot. 

What part of Brazil is your family from? 

The northern coastal region. Just an hour flight north from Rio de Janiero.