No matter what condition you're in, that hill will kick you in the butt. For everyone, it's tough. But for me, it was really tough. If you don't make it, you can't be a Warrior. It's a great test.

When we're in system, it makes it easy.

The thing in men's volleyball is the competition is so tight. You only have so many programs. You don't have one or two good players on every team. You've got six or seven good players on every team. You've got to be focused or you'll be in trouble. That's a lesson we learned in (Friday's) match.

He's their big hitter. We had to stay focused, play the percentages and play tough.

It's a hard position, but no position is easy. You just have to work at trying to get better.

He's a really nice guy, but he has a switch he turns on when he gets on the court, and then he becomes a real competitor. He loves to win. He expects a lot, especially of himself. He'll dive for balls. He'll set. He's a great leader. That attitude is contagious.

For two years, you're not going to be playing a sport you love.

He had the international experience playing for the Junior (national) team.