ST. JOSEPH, Ill. (WCIA) – Meet Hadley McDonald, a junior volleyball standout at St. Joseph-Ogden High School who is redefining what it means to be an athlete.

In an extraordinary display of skill and determination, Hadley plays nearly every set for the Spartans, all while using just one hand.

“We learned before she was born that she would be missing her left hand,” shared Abby McDonald, who is not only Hadley’s mother but also the head volleyball coach at St. Joseph-Ogden.

Abby sought advice from families who had children with limb differences, gaining valuable insights that have been instrumental in Hadley’s journey.

“We never imposed any limitations on her. We always encouraged her to approach things in her unique way, just like anyone else,” Abby explained, reflecting on the empowering guidance she offered her daughter.

Volleyball would seem to be one of the more difficult sports to compete in with only one hand. For Hadley, it was never a question. She grew up in the gym with her mother’s teams.

“Blaming it on my arm was never, ever an option when I was growing up,” Hadley McDonald said.

She fell in love with volleyball and dance. Now, she thrives in both.

“She has always pushed herself to do the hardest things in the world,” Addi Stevens, an SJO junior volleyball player said.

Stevens is one of McDonald’s closest friends. She is far from the only teammate inspired by the Hadley’s ability.

“If she can do it, [and] she’s great at it, it pushes us to work harder for us too,” St. Joseph-Ogden senior volleyball player Katie Ericksen said.

There are some areas of the game which come easier than others. Finding a way to make certain passes or sets often takes McDonald longer than others. None of that has ever held her back.

McDonald credits a strong support system of coaches, teammates, friends and family.

“No matter your differences you got to make sure you’re around people that truly care about you and truly support you,” she said. “That will help you go a long way.”

She also hopes there’s a lesson to be learned from her story.

“Always be determined,” she said. “Nothing will set you back if you put your mind to it.”

St. Joseph-Ogden lost to Unity in the regional quarterfinals on Tuesday. Hadley looks forward to continuing to find a way to be successful on the volleyball court as a senior — and on the dance floor, where she helped the Spartans win the IDTA State Championship during the 2024-25 school year.