Playing against better competition makes you better and more focused, so you can do what you have to, to win.

I didn't want to use anything as a crutch and ever have excuses heading into a match.

I want to be as self-reliant as possible and do it all from within.

One of the best ways to [improve my longevity] that is to minimize injury or avoid it by being more flexible—especially when we are meeting at the net. There is a hitter and blocker, which means a lot foot contact, where you can twist your ankle easily.

A lot of guys are out there with their iPods. I'm not one of them. I just never really got into it.

I played a kid's game, I got to do it at the beach, and I was able to support my family. I consider myself incredibly lucky.

I still get excited just attending a final four, because the process is so long, so arduous, so challenging, that when it finally arrives, the adrenaline can't help but take over. I love the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie that the indoor game can engender.