State Financial Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Scott and Jenna Spata 

Siblings: Ryder Spata 

Position or events: 

Outside hitter all the way around in volleyball, and center field for softball

Career highlight: 

First team All-State for volleyball 2024 and softball  2025, multiple first team, all conferences in both volleyball and softball.

2024 D5 State Volleyball All-Tournament Team

At what age did you start playing your main sport?  

I started at  five years old playing softball in Hewitt Rec team.

Who introduced you to the sport? 

My parents and friends 

Has this always been your favorite sport?

 I have the same passion in both volleyball and softball.

How has balancing academics and athletics been different for you from your freshman year to your senior year? 

It was a challenge my freshman year.  Now I have learned what I need to do to be successful in my academics.  To say the least, I have grown.

What is your favorite part about this sport? 

The high level of discipline and competitiveness.

What about it has caused you to stick with it for this long? 

The environment such as my teammate, coaches, peers and parents. Also the love of the game.

What would you say is your biggest asset on the field/track? 

I am flexible and willing to try new things which has helped me be able to adapt to multiple positions in both of my sports.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far? 

Setting the new Ace serving record that has been in place for over 24 years at the State Volleyball tournament my junior year, or my 15 home runs and 100 Career Hits this past softball season.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?

It is really a lot to take in right now. I am trying to enjoy each moment I have left with my teammates and best friends.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to give a shout out to? 

Jeremy Jirschele & Mandy Pankratz for believing in me and your guidance. You took our travel softball team to the top across the country. My JBA Clutch teammates/family who push me to be better and continue to strive to be the best I can be. 

Coach Troy for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to be the best player I can be.

Coach Kat for giving all Columbus students the opportunities to join volleyball at a young age and always making it fun.

Any hobbies outside of sports? 

Coaching youth sports along with refereeing and umpiring.

Favorite song? 

“Dance in the Dark” by Rihanna.

Future plans? (college, major, career, etc.) 

In March of 2025 the week before the high school softball season started, I committed to play softball at UW-Eau Claire. I’m believed to be the first student in program history to commit to play college softball for Columbus. I plan on studying psychology, and a criminal justice with a goal to do criminal psychology in the FBI.