There are always those people who just seem naturally athletic. They are known throughout their schooling to be the most dynamic and versatile players on the court or field. Senior Maya Saibel has always been known to all her peers and prospects as a ‘born to be an athlete’ type of individual. As a two-sport athlete who plays both varsity basketball and field hockey, Saibel delivers nothing less than a stellar performance every time she touches the field or court. Saibel has created a name for herself that is hard to forget through her formidable playing and leadership as a captain.
Saibel began her field hockey career as she approached the start of her freshman year, hoping to make new friends before the big transition into high school.
“I [began playing] just as a way to meet people and have fun. Luckily I made the team, and it’s been a lot of fun [throughout high school],” Saibel said.
Even though field hockey isn’t Saibel’s main sport, she still received Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) second-team All-League honors during the 2024 season. She also took her team to the MCAL finals, coming out with a big win against district rival Tamalpais High School. As fall sports wrapped up, Saibel reflected on her time on the field.
“I’m unfortunately done with [field hockey]. I don’t think I’ll be continuing that [after high school]. I still had such an amazing experience on the team and created amazing memories with my teammates,” Saibel said.
During the 2023-24 basketball season, Saibel led her team to victory in the North Coast Section (NCS) division two finals for the first time in school history and received MCAL first-team All-League for her incredible abilities on the court. This is Saibel’s second year as a team captain for basketball, but her fourth year overall, which comes with a lot of responsibility and commitment to the greatness of herself and her teammates.
“I have a pretty big role [on the team this year] just in terms of communication between my coach and the rest of my team and getting everything organized during practice and games,” Saibel said.
Her leadership skills as captain have taught her more about how to lead others on the team and herself to grow as an individual and team player.
“I just try to cultivate a positive environment where everyone feels confident in what they can do. We have a team filled with variety [this year] with a lot of people that can contribute valuably,” Saibel said.
A teammate and fellow captain, junior Brooke Denler, shares a role with Saibel but finds herself looking up to her, even technically sharing the same position.
“[Saibel] is one of our most vocal leaders on the team, and she is a key part of what holds us together,” Denler said.
Having played sports since the day she could walk, Saibel has always been inspired to continue her passion every day.
“My teammates, my parents and the people around me that support me just make me want to be better and just keep playing. I love the game and I love the people that I’m doing it with,” Saibel said.
In hopes of the future, Saibel wants to take her team to the MCAL championships and receive yet another NCS title. After high school, Saibel dreams of playing basketball in college and pursuing those dreams at an academically fit school.
“I think [the college] would have to be the right place for me. Some smaller Division 3 high academic schools in a good area are something that would be of interest to me,” Saibel said.
Working hard both athletically and academically, can sometimes take a toll on people, but not Saibel. Her nonstop dedication to self-and team improvement has paved the way to success. Saibel inspires others to work their hardest, just as she does, and always puts their best foot forward, even when it’s challenging.
“Most sports are mentally and physically hard,” Saibel said. “It’s important to never lose confidence in yourself and what you can do, and if you really love the game, then the skills will come later because of your dedication to getting better.”
