Volleyball is not like a formula so we must give players some freedom.

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.

Volleyball is not like a formula so we must give players some freedom.

When I warm up now though—especially on center court—there is usually music playing, so I don't really mess with music.

It was really an exciting time trying to find my way from being a boy to becoming a man—being toe to toe and eye to eye with grown men, even though I was only 11 or 12.

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.

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