A-K Valley Senior Spotlight: Highlands’ Brooke Signorella

By: Ted Sarneso
Monday, May 6, 2024 | 12:31 PM

Trying new things has become something of a habit for Highlands senior Brooke Signorella.

She was an outside hitter on the volleyball team, which is a relatively new program for Highlands, having started up only three years ago.

Currently, she competes on the Golden Rams track and field team, participating in the 100-meter dash, the high jump and the triple jump.

“I joined my sophomore year because a friend of mine told me to give it a try,” Signorella said.

From joining the team on a whim, Signorella set a school record in the 100 last year with a time of 12.5 seconds and placed eighth in the event at last year’s WPIAL championships.

“The 100-meter record stood since 2008,” coach Mike Foster said. “She’s probably going to break the high jump record, which is 5-3. She might have a shot at the triple jump as well. The record of 36.25 feet was set back in 2009. She’s almost at a 36 right now. I expect her to go 36, 37.”

What’s astounding is Signorella only learned the triple jump this season.

“I did it one time last year, just for fun,” Signorella said. “I’m excited to be competing in it this year.”

In the Slippery Rock High School Invitational on April 20, Signorella placed fifth in the 100 with a 12.82, third in the high jump at 5-0 and second in the triple jump with a 34-0.

After the event, when the Highlands team was gathering kids who placed for a picture, there was one athlete who didn’t think his seventh place warranted him being included in the photo.

Signorella was having none of that negativity.

“I think since I’m so hard on myself and I know other people can see it, I don’t want anyone else to feel that way,” Signorella said. “We should celebrate what we can. If you place, that’s amazing. It’s hard to do. So, celebrate it.”

Signorella took some time for a Senior Spotlight Q&A:

Your coach says you’re very detail oriented and like to watch a lot of film. Take me through your process.

My dad started helping out this year, and I’m so grateful to him (and the Highlands coaches). I have them record me doing everything, and I will sit there and replay the video and write down notes about what I need to do to get better.

What are you focused on before the 100?

I wish everyone luck before every race, and I look at the finish line and lock in and I’m going to go as fast as I can.

What were your thoughts and feelings when you placed eighth in the 100 at WPIALs last year?

I was a little frustrated. I felt I could have done better, but that’s life. You don’t learn from winning everything.

Which is your favorite event to compete in?

Anything related to jumping. Triple jump is quickly becoming my favorite because it’s enjoyable. High jump is so freeing when you’re up there floating.

You’re also a volleyball player. What position did you play?

Outside hitter.

Any favorite memory from this volleyball season?

The Deer Lakes tournament where we swept Leechburg. I know we were down 12 points in a game and came back to win.

You also play travel volleyball. Which team do you belong to?

Pitt Elite, 18 Premier. Last year was my first year, and it’s done wonders for me. I’ve progressed both as an athlete and as a person.

College plans?

Attending DeSales University in Center Valley, Pa. I will play both track and volleyball and study to be a biomedical major.

Favorite high school memory so far?

Being on the homecoming court and in the parade. It was nice to be nominated. It was a special moment for everyone involved. I love the girl who was named queen. She definitely deserved it.

Any advice you want to leave your teammates before you graduate?

Celebrate your success. Even though it might not be what you wanted, you still made it there. Prove other people wrong. A lot of people didn’t think I could play college volleyball because I’ve only been playing it for two years.

Tags: Highlands