Northwestern University Athletics

GTK - Fara

Getting to Know: Rachael Fara

10/21/2015 11:00:00 AM | Women's Volleyball

As Northwestern volleyball (12-7, 4-4) continues its march through Big Ten play, NUsports.com caught up with Rachael Fara to learn a little bit about the freshman middle blocker. Fara shares her expectations, the person she would most like to meet and more in this edition of "Getting to Know."

NUSports: Why did you choose Northwestern?
Rachael Fara: I chose to play and study at Northwestern University because I wanted to surround myself with people that I hope to emulate. 

NU: How did your transition into a starting role go?
RF: I focus on preparing for every game as if I am playing. Every player on our team is extremely important and everyone helps each other out. 

NU: What were your expectations for yourself coming into this season?
RF: My expectations for myself this season are to remain patient and to learn as much as possible. I hope to learn from current team leaders how to lead teams in the future.  My goal is to do everything in my power to help my teammates and I achieve our goals. 

NU: What is your favorite thing about Northwestern so far?
RF: I love the team. My teammates are the reason I am attending Northwestern. 

NU: Describe your pre-match ritual.
RF: Ideally, I like to get to the gym as early as possible. I change, eat, review scouting reports and then begin to stretch and mentally focus. Once warm-up starts I don't like to sit down. I prefer to move and stay active with the team. 

NU: Who is your favorite athlete?
RF: Courtney Thompson 

NU: What are some of your hobbies?
RF: I love working out and lifting, but if I have already done that for the day and don't have homework, I like to sketch or draw. 

NU: What is one thing that people should know about you?
RF: I may seem very serious at first, but I enjoy having fun. 

NU: If you could meet anyone past or present, who would it be and why?
RF: Pope Francis. I'm Catholic and really enjoy many of the thoughts he has on religion, the church and his and Christianity's role on a global stage. 

NU: When did you start playing volleyball and why?
RF: I started playing volleyball in 5th grade at my elementary school. I enjoyed it, but I think I first fell in love with the sport because of my 7th grade coach, Terri Zemaitis, a former Penn State player. 

NU: What is one piece of advice you would give to girls hoping to play college volleyball?
RF: Make sure you love this sport - any sport - before agreeing to play it in college. It takes a lot of hard work, but if you love what you do, it is all worth it. 
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