Michigan State University Athletics
Getting to Know Katie Vander Meer
9/14/2006 12:00:00 AM | Volleyball
Sept. 14, 2006
What is the best thing about coming to State with someone you went to high school with (Whitney Tremain)?
"I think it has helped make the transition a lot easier, knowing she is in the same boat I am. Coming here together, we can work to adjust to the new atmosphere."
As a multi-sport athlete in high school, which was your favorite and why?
"It was volleyball; because the atmosphere of the games and the closeness of people on the team, which made team chemistry a lot easier to deal with."
What is the most important thing you have learned in your short time in East Lansing?
"I'm a lot stronger person that I really realized I was."
Is there any upperclassman that has taken you under her wing and shown you the ropes of college and college volleyball?
"Allison Ianni - she's my big sister, and I was able to ask her a lot of questions, especially since we're both setters. We both have the same perspective on the game, so I was able to ask her what I need to know playing that position."
What is one thing about being a setter that people might thing is interesting (as opposed to a hitter or blocker).
"The setter runs the show. Sometimes I don't think people realize how important a setter really is, because all they know is a kill puts the point on the scoreboard, so they think hitters get all the points. But you can't hit without a setter."
What do you hope to accomplish in your time at MSU away from the gym?
"I just hope to become a stronger person all around, and continue to fight and do well at school. My main focus is education right now."
How have you had to change your game to adapt to college volleyball?
"I've had to adjust to the speed of the game, and adjust to the different system because it's something I'm not used to. It's definitely a lot more challenging, which makes it a lot more fun."
Who has been the most influential person on your athletic career?
"My high school soccer coach because he was always there for me, always a positive influence, and always encouraging me no matter which sport I was playing."
What is the best advice you could give a younger volleyball player who has dreams of playing at the collegiate level?
"Don't stop dreaming and continue to work hard. If you put your mind to something, you can do it; it's just a matter of how bad you want it."
