Royals’ Elaina Millaway headed to Florida Gulf Coast University

Recently named the 2024 DIAA Player of the Year in girls’ volleyball and a member of the all-state team, Delmarva Christian senior Elaina Millaway committed Nov. 19 to playing Division I beach volleyball at Florida Gulf Coast University.

“I started playing at a very young age because I always grew up with volleyball in my family,” Millaway said. “Both my older sisters played, so I just played along with them in the yard, and then I started playing club, getting competitive with it. I originally started beach volleyball just to help improve my indoor skills, but I fell in love with it because I can do so many other things other than just pass the ball or set the ball – you're constantly moving.”

Millaway wrapped up her career by leading the Royals to a 9-8 overall record and a visit to the second postseason round, where they lost to eventual state champion Tower Hill. She recorded more than 1,000 kills in high school and departs Delmarva Christian as the program’s all-time points leader. 

While she has played beach volleyball in a club setting, next year will be her first playing scholastically.

“You have mainly a blocker and defensive player; the defensive player, they're supposed to read every ball and try to get it up and set their blocker up for success, or a set,” Millaway said. “That's why every part is so critical; you're playing a massive role with either position.”

Millaway is excited to start her freshman year at FGCU.

“Their beach program is just so good,” Millaway said. “It's continuing to grow and just getting better and better, and I'm excited to be a part of it.”

Her whole family might not be able to attend every match, but she knows they will still cheer her on.

“It’s gonna be a big change, but they're very supportive, so they wanna come and watch as many games as possible,” Millaway said. “My sister doesn't live far from there, so I will have some family down there, but still gonna be a big change.”

Speaking of sisters, Millaway said her favorite high school memory was a trip to the semifinals her sophomore year and her sister Ellie’s senior year. 

In addition to her Player of the Year accolade, Millaway is also in the running for Delaware’s Gatorade Player of the Year, which encompasses all sports.