This summer, we'll be taking the time to highlight each of our 15 volleyball student-athletes. Get to know your Rocket volleyball squad and come out to Savage Arena this season, which kicks off with a home exhibition match against Indianapolis on Aug. 24.

Zoe Birnbrich | Senior | Middle Hitter | Dublin, Ohio


When did you first start playing volleyball?
I started playing volleyball in the fifth grade.

What's your earliest volleyball memory?
Going to volleyball tournaments and making deals with my parents to get a tournament shirt. I would have to get like four blocks in a game and they'd buy me a shirt.

What are your favorite things about being a volleyball player?
The impact it has on people. Knowing little kids look up to us as role models is a great feeling.

Why did you decide to come to the University of Toledo to play volleyball?
It is close to home and I love having my family in the stands cheering for me! My major is top ten in the nation which was also a big selling point.

What do you love the most about being a Toledo Rocket?
I love the family atmosphere here! Everyone is so close between sports, it truly is a Rocket family.

Who are your role models?
My dad!

What is your favorite spot on campus?
The courtyard in University Hall because it's a quiet place and really pretty!

What is your major and why did you choose it?
Recreational therapy with a minor in psychology! I have always wanted to make an impact on people's lives and recreational therapy major allows me to do that.

What is the most interesting class you've taken at Toledo?
My anatomy lab. I loved being able to dissect everything.

What do you want to do after graduation?
I would like to work with veterans with PTSD.

Not including volleyball, what is your favorite sport to watch?
I love to watch swimming! I used to be a swimmer so it brings back a lot of memories.

What are your hobbies, outside of sports?
I am a volleyball coach, I like reading, I love long car rides with friends, and watching The Office!

Do you have a nickname and, if so, how did you get it?
Zobo - My uncle gave me that nickname when I was really young but don't remember why. But the volleyball team calls me Zoith - a teammate called me that one day and everyone seemed to like it.

What is the best piece of advice you've ever gotten?
"'You miss 100% of the shots you don't take.' -Wayne Gretzky" -Michael Scott

What is your dream vacation spot?
Croatia!

What is your favorite restaurant in Toledo?
Shorty's.

What is the best concert you've ever been to?
Sam Smith, but this summer I am going to Ultra Europe so I am pretty sure that will beat Sam Smith.

What celebrity would you choose to play yourself in a movie?
Gabriella Wilde.

What is your favorite:
Movie- Endless Love
TV show- The Office
Musical Artist- Kygo
Book- After by Anna Todd
Holiday- Valentine's Day
Comfort food- Mac & Cheese