Q-and-A with Kara Rockey, Richards volleyball
September 24, 2012 5:48PM
Kara Rockey, of Richards. | Matt Marton~Sun-Times Media
high school
CUBE
Updated: October 26, 2012 6:11AM
Kara Rockey, 17, of Oak Lawn, is in her fourth season as a libero for the Richards volleyball Bulldogs.
How do you view your role with the Bulldogs?
I try to lead by example. I work hard at practice. I’m constantly trying to talk on the court and communicate with everyone.
What makes girls volleyball better than boys volleyball. Or is it?
I think it’s a smarter game. When boys are playing they’re going up and trying to hit it as hard as they can every time. Girls try to find the open court and make a smart shot. And we can play defense.
Any story about your number (2)?
Well, when I was a freshman I really wanted 23. No one had it, but when we saw the jersey it was a 4 XL. It was huge. I was swimming in it. So I took 2, just to keep it simple.
Describe coach Troy Grevengoed.
(Laughing) Oh, he’s awesome. He’s so funny, and a great coach. And he has so many kids, like six at home. So we always joke around and call him “Dad.”
You hit the floor a lot. How many bruises a year do you get?
By the end of the season, my whole side is purple.
What opposing team makes it hard to sleep the night before?
Shepard! Every time it’s huge. Eveyone wants to win. And it’s always a “Volley For The Cure” game, so there is a huge crowd. It’s crazy.
What’s the coolest thing about being a libero?
Controlling the whole backcourt. I love it being the last line of defense, knowing that nothing is going to hit the floor when I’m back there.
What do you want everyone at Richards to remember about you after you graduate?
I just want them to remember me as the leader I was on the court, and for being a good person overall.
As told to Tony Baranek
