Nov. 4, 2011
ARLINGTON, Tex. - UT Arlington has only four conference games left until the Southland Conference Tournament, and Saturday they take on Nicholls State in Thibodaux, Louisiana.
The Mavericks (11-16, 7-6 SLC) are currently riding a four-game win streak and appear to be hitting their stride at the right time.
Freshman Ashley Bennett has almost finished her first season, and UTAMavs.com caught up with her to find out about the experience.
UTAMavs.com: How do you feel about your first season in college?
Ashley Bennett: "I'm really happy that I'm playing in college. It takes up a lot of my time, but this has been a big part of my life. And it's been great getting to know the team, they're all great.
UTAMavs.com: What has been your favorite part of playing college volleyball?
"The best part has been getting so close to the team. I came in and got to know everybody pretty quick. It was awesome. I look up to them like crazy. They've been through the experience longer than I have so I look up to them a lot. It's going to be weird without them next year, but it will just make the younger players step up quicker. They've been our role models."
UTAMavs.com: What is the biggest difference between high school and college volleyball?
"The pace of the game is a lot faster. I didn't realize until I got on the court, but it really is a different game. It looks the same from the sidelines, but everything comes at you a lot faster. Having to block, be specific and move faster is a challenge."
UTAMavs.com: How do you balance school, volleyball and social life?
"It was hard at the beginning because we were traveling so much. I had to jump into living on my own, practice, and school right when I got here. It was difficult at first, but I got used it. I feel like if I didn't have volleyball, I wouldn't know what to do with my free time."
UTAMavs.com: What are some of your favorite on-campus activities?
"I don't do much outside of athletic stuff. I'm usually with other athletes, and when we do on-campus things I'm also with them. I like it, because I've been around athletes my whole life and those are the people I fit in with the best."
UTAMavs.com: What are some of your favorite hobbies?
"I like shopping, but I guess every girl does. I also love family time whenever I can. I don't see them as often as I used to, so It's great to spend time with them. If I'm with my friends we'll do something simple, but make it fun. I like going to movies and doing other random stuff."
