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.

Rachel Pierce | Freshman | Outside Hitter | Rockbridge, Ohio
 
When did you first start playing volleyball?
I started playing volleyball in the second grade on my mother's local youth recreational team. We played area teams, and a lot of the girls I played with or against continued to play through middle school and high school.

What's your earliest volleyball memory?
My earliest memory is selling Girl Scout cookies at the door of one of my mom's adult rec games. I built a little fortress out of all the boxes and sold them to people watching and the players after they'd finished playing.

What is your favorite thing about being a volleyball player?
My favorite things about being a volleyball player are the people and how incredibly fun it is. I've met so many people I likely otherwise would not have, and I've made so many new friendships. Volleyball has always been my happy place, somewhere to turn to when I was going through something.

Why did you decide to come to the University of Toledo to play volleyball?
I knew since I was probably 12 years old that I wanted to play collegiate volleyball, and I visited so many schools chasing that dream. I love Toledo's campus and the team has an amazing bond. I can't wait to start the season.

­­Who is your role model?
My mom is probably my most influential role model, I've always looked up to her ability to handle whatever happens in life.

What is your major and why did you choose it?
My major is accounting, I chose it because I've always loved math and I actually had a summer job at a bank and I loved it.

What do you want to do after graduation?
After graduation I'm not sure career-wise what my plan is, but I'd like to move somewhere not too warm and with lots of rain.

Not including volleyball, what is your favorite sport to watch?
Football, not any particular team but I just enjoy the game.

Do you have a nickname and, if so, how did you get it?
My nickname is Porkchop. My father decided one day when I was really young that it was fitting. I'm not really sure why though.

What is your dream vacation spot?
My dream vacation spot would be Seattle. I love rainy weather so much, and there is a lot of scenic hiking outside the city I'd like to see.

What is the best piece of advice you've ever gotten?
The best piece of advice I've ever gotten is probably to put less stock into the past and move on. One of my club volleyball coaches told me I needed to stop worrying about plays that were already over and move onto the next, it really helped me to become a better player.

What is your favorite:
Movie: Happy Gilmore
TV Show: Grey's Anatomy
Book: The Hunger Games
Musical Artist: 6lack
Holiday: Fourth of July
Comfort Food: Dark chocolate