Q&A with Madison Szpaicher
Junior volleyball player Madison Szpaicher (Ellicottville) recently answered a few questions about the conclusion of the 2015 season. Szpaicher and the Lady Pioneers competed at both the USCAA Championships and the ECAC Championships this season.
Szpaicher played in 130 of the teams 133 sets. She recorded 391 digs, 162 kills, and 32 serve aces for the 28-11 Lady Pioneers.
Describe the 2015 team in three words?
Determined. Dedicated. Family.
What is your favorite memory of the 2015 season?
Beating Houghton College in five sets in our gym & USCAA Nationals at SUNY Canton.
Describe the influence Coach Doorley has had on your career?
I most likely would not be here if it wasn't for Coach. He took me in as an injured recruit and hasn't only made me a better athlete but a better person as well.
What is it like to continue to play with your high school teammates?
At first I was nervous, but I wouldn't change the last three years of playing with them for anything. Not many athletes get an opportunity to play with one of their old teammates let alone two of them! We know how one another plays and that allows us to gel even better on the court.
What piece of advice have you received during your career that will you continue to use in your future?
Fake it 'til you make it.
What is the hardest part of balancing academic and athletic demands?
The business department is very supportive of athletics, so if you work with them they will work with you. For me the hardest part is missing the actual class.
Tell us about your plans for next semester?
Next semester I will be studying abroad in Australia's capital, Canberra, at the University of Canberra. I am one of nine American students who will take classes at UC. I leave February 1st for a two-week orientation and will return after finals mid-June.
Quick Hits:
Favorite snack on a road trip? Cheez-Its
Favorite movie? It's a Wonderful Life
Dream vacation spot? Bora Bora
Best place to get coffee on campus? Evergreen Café
If you could choose anyone to be your teammate in a beach volleyball tournament, who would you select? Matt Anderson
