Wheaton College Athletics

#Ashlie Pace# is a senior on the Wheaton volleyball team, serving as the team's captain for the upcoming 2009 season. Below is an interview with the Thunder senior.

Q: What is your major?
A: My major is Applied Health Science.

Q: Why did you choose to attend and play volleyball at Wheaton?
A: I actually chose Wheaton as a result of a series of purpose-filled events. I kept hearing about what a great school it was when I was in high school, so I became more and more interested. When I got accepted, I came to visit and fell in love with the school. I've played volleyball for much of my life so I knew I wanted to try out for the team, and now I'm here and loving it.

Q: What is your favorite thing about playing volleyball at Wheaton
A: I love my teammates who encourage me physically and spiritually. I also have a huge passion for the competition, and the CCIW definitely brings some tough opponents.

Q: What do you enjoy most about Wheaton?
A: Wheaton's high standard of character for each student. People here are so driven, yet have so much fun too!

Q: What are your thoughts on the discipline required to balance life as a college athlete and student?
A: Balancing volleyball with school is a challenge, but one that helps me to be more efficient with my time. My favorite time of the year is during volleyball season because of the motivation to do my best in all aspects of my life. It really pushes me to rely more on God as well.

Q: You play libero, a position that was brought into the college game in the last few years. Can you explain what a libero is? Also, can you talk about what goes into playing the position well?
A: The libero is a full-time back row player. Their position is defense, as they are expected to dig/pass the majority of the balls from the opponent to set up the play. A "good" libero can read the block so she can predict where the ball will be hit; she must be quick on her feet, react quickly, communicate well, and pass the ball accurately and consistently to the setter in order to score the point. It's a tough but rewarding position!