How Nigeria’s Mirabel Onyeywu, 16, Is Serving Her Way to a U.S. Volleyball Dream

At just 16, Mirabel Onyeywu Binichukwu is already drawing headlines — not for records broken, but for a journey defined by grit, discipline, and quiet persistence. 

Now, the Nigerian teenage volleyball sensation is headed to the United States, having secured a full athletic scholarship to Weatherford College, Texas, where she will compete in the NJCAA Division I volleyball league.

The Delta State-born athlete, who grew up in Abuja’s military barracks, began her volleyball journey at the age of six. What started as a childhood pastime has blossomed into a promising career, buoyed by family support and a relentless work ethic.

“My house is five minutes from the court,” she told NAIJA NEWS TODAY in an interview. “So I train morning and evening every single day.”

Mirabel’s early volleyball years were spent with the Scorpion Spikers Club, where she was the youngest — and smallest — on the team. But size was never a deterrent.

“My coaches trained me from scratch,” she recalled. “Since then, it’s been non-stop training.”

Her parents, whom she describes as her biggest supporters, have followed her journey closely — from the sidelines of local tournaments to national competitions.

“They’ve supported me spiritually, mentally, financially — everything,” she said. “They’ve never missed a match.”

That unwavering backing, coupled with raw talent, eventually caught the attention of retired Commodore Pendar, then Chairman of the Chief of Naval Staff Volleyball Team. 

It marked a turning point in her career. With mentorship from Sub-Lieutenant Dikiyai Morrison Seiyafa and the support of the Sports Bridge Foundation, Mirabel was introduced to international scouts and opportunities that would later open doors overseas.

In 2023, she represented Nigeria at the U-17 African Nations Championship in Abuja and competed in the Women’s African Club Championship in Tunisia. 

Her performances earned her individual accolades, including Most Valuable Player, Best Attacker, and Best Server at various tournaments.

Balancing the demands of competitive sport with academics, however, has not come easy.

“It’s been the toughest challenge,” she admitted. “But I take extra lessons to catch up.”

Mirabel credits her barracks upbringing for instilling the discipline she now carries onto the court.

“Growing up in a military environment, there were rules. That structure shaped me. And because my training ground was within walking distance, I had no excuse not to show up.”

As she prepares to make the leap across continents, Mirabel is packing more than just her kits. Among her essentials is a gift from a close friend — a wallet she considers symbolic of her journey so far. But beyond the practical, she is carrying dreams shaped by sacrifice and faith.

“I’m excited — for a better education and more experience in the game,” she said.

To her younger self, she has a message:

“Believe in yourself, work hard, and never give up. Volleyball is a journey. Enjoy the process.”

To young Nigerian girls watching her rise, she offers a challenge:

“Start where you are. Believe in your potential. Success takes time, sacrifice, and commitment.”

With her sights now set on American college volleyball and beyond, Mirabel Onyeywu is not just chasing a scholarship — she’s carving out a legacy. One forged by early mornings, late nights, and the belief that talent, when matched with discipline and the right support, can carry you across oceans.

“She’s back and better,” she says. “With leadership, courage, and determination.”