Just a day before Southwestern's next match, junior setter Nikki Welch sat down with SouthwesternPirates.com for a question-and-answer session. She answered questions ranging from how the team perceives its national ranking to which teammate has the best nickname.
The volleyball team is off to a 15-2 start and 6-1 in conference play. How would you rate the team's progress so far?
I think the team is playing well. There are things we can improve on. Our serve receive is doing really well. Defense has always been a strong point on our team. We are trying to keep that at a high level, while also improving our transition offense.
The Pirates have been ranked for most of the season, including a No. 17 rating in last week's poll. How much does that matter to you and the rest of the squad?
It is a confidence booster knowing that other coaches think highly of us. It also puts a target on our backs, so we know we need to keep improving. We aren't satisfied with our ranking, so it's a motivating tool.
At the end of last month, Southwestern dropped a four-set match to conference-leading Colorado College. What were the differences in the two teams that day?
Both teams are very similar. Both play very good defense. They have a high-powered offense and it showed that day. We didn't play our best volleyball in that match.
You get another crack at Colorado College on Oct. 23, and Southwestern will be hosting the SCAC Tournament Nov. 6-7. How big is it to host the conference tournament in the Robertson Center?
It's huge. I'm really excited about it. Since we host the tournament, it will be fun to have our fans come out and support us and be on our side. It will be nice to be in our own gym and be comfortable.
How would you rate your own play this season?
I'm reaching some of my goals, but I'm never satisfied with my play. I always want to get better and improve. I go into every practice looking to get better in something. I didn't have my best year last season. I came into this season looking to be more of a leader.
You have a chance to set the ball to some very talented hitters. But, one, specifically, has garnered a lot of attention, in outside hitter Kaitlyn Foster. Why has she been so successful this year?
Katie is good at everything. I think the only thing she is bad at is that she can't touch her toes. She is the most competitive person I know. She never wants to lose in anything. Her competitive spirit shows in every match she plays.
You also have two talented middles – Olivia Drummond and Kirby Kincannon. What attributes do each of those players bring to the team and how are you looking to include them in the offense?
I make sure to set both of them when the situation is right. There are times when it is not right to set the middle. They are both great team players. Both have worked hard on their blocking and do a great job in the middle.
This team has been on the road a lot this season. Who is the life of the party when Southwestern travels?
We have multiple. Katie Foster is one of the funniest people I know. She is crazy and is always making us laugh. Abbie Robb does as well. Their sense of humor is hilarious.
Who has the best nickname on the team?
I think Sydney Rochelle has the best nickname. We call her 'Squid' or 'Squidney.'
