Player Perspectives

Sept. 3, 2003

Senior middle blocker Teresa Russell enters her senior season eager to return to the lineup after missing the last year and a half with an ACL. One of the most talented middle blockers in program history, Russell ranks 10th in career kills (787) and is fifth in total blocks (316).

First I would like to thank everyone who came to watch us play in our Green vs. Gold match. You have helped kick off a hopefully great 2003 season for the Lady Dons volleyball team.

I have been here for over four years now and have watched players and friends come and go, but this team is very special to me. It is now my turn to ask my teammates to give all they have on and off the court so that I may have the kind of season I want to end my USF volley ball career.

I now know why Laura Tinetti and Amanda Willnerd were so passionate their senior years. Don't get me wrong, I have loved and had passion for this game, but these girls, along with their senior teammates, took it to another level.

As we head into our first tournament I am excited to have such talent by my side. I know the other four seniors want to go out with an amazing season, the best USF has ever seen. Our coach has been telling us that it will take hard work and determination to get where we want to be, and if you have been anywhere near War Memorial over that last few weeks you would have seen the volleyball team either practicing or playing or weight lifting or eating or playing. Even with all that gym time it takes more to be a great team. The other seniors and I are ready to show our senior passion, lay everything on the line, and get our team to play with us at the level we want to compete at.

I love this team and know that each player has a vital role in making our team great. I put complete trust in my teammates that they will work as hard for me as I will for them. This will be an exciting year here at the Hilltop. I hope to see you all there.