ABBOTSFORD, Wis. (WSAW) – Faith Sperl had had quite the career at Abbotsford. The numbers bear that out. As a junior, she hit 1,000 career assists. As a senior, she took it to another level.

At Abbotsford’s home tournament in September, Sperl had a banner day, registering her 2,000th assist, 1,000th dig and 200th ace all on the same day.

“Obviously, it’s kind of like an ‘I made it moment’ a little bit,” said Sperl, “so it’s like everything does pay off, the hard work, everything, the sweat and tears, all of it.”

It was a special moment, one Sperl didn’t even see coming. However, what happened next she definitely didn’t see coming.

“It was just after the lunch break,” said Sperl. “We were warming up and my coach goes over to the microphone. I wasn’t really even paying attention. I was just warming up until I heard my name and then I was like, ‘I should probably listen. What’s going on here?”

A surprise orchestrated by Sperl’s family and coaches was in full effect. The theatrics started with remarks from Sperl’s head coach.

“It was just like a good feeling,” said Sperl. “Like all those little words…I take everything to heart.”

What followed truly shocked Sperl. Her best friend, Reece Nelson, who graduated a year prior, returned to Abbotsford from Charlotte, N.C. The two bonded on the volleyball court for years and now got to share Sperl’s big day together.

“She…surprised me with the banner, walked out,” said Sperl. “I had no clue. Instant, full of emotions like, ‘What the heck is my life?”

For Sperl, it was more than just a surprise from her friend. It was an emotional moment that summed up how she feels about volleyball and the teammates she’s bonded with through it.

“It’s just like, amazing knowing that on a day like that, I had my best friend there with me,” said Sperl. “I wouldn’t have been here if it weren’t for her being on the court with me last year and like being a part of that so it’s good knowing that she could come back and be a part of this moment too so she’s been there through it all, so love her for that.”

That moment kind of encapsulated the full range of emotions for Sperl. She’s thrilled to help Abbotsford to their second-straight Marawood South title. However, she also knows it’s bittersweet as her time winds down.

“I get very emotional thinking about it now,” said Sperl. “Like, it’s all coming to an end so soon, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. It’s just been a crazy ride but none of it would’ve been possible without them, my amazing coaches, my amazing coaching staff, my family, my friends. It’s just a great feeling knowing I have these great people by me.”