By: Shelby Soltau '16

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The Santa Clara volleyball team impressively beat No. 18 Pepperdine University on September 29th. Junior setter Alyssa Anderson (AA) helped the team with 28 assists and 13 digs.

As the team readies to host No. 16 BYU on Saturday, Anderson leads the team with 6.39 apg and is tied for the team lead with 0.33 sapg. She also collects 2.00 dpg. Recently, www.SantaClaraBroncos.com talked to Anderson about the team's goals, her responsibilities on the team and the 2012 Summer Olympics.

SCB: Now that the preseason is over and you are deep into West Coast Conference play, what are your goals for the year?

AA: As a team we want to compete for the WCC championship. Everyone has worked hard throughout preseason and is willing to do whatever it takes to reach this goal.

SCB: What kind of responsibility do you have as a setter on and off the court?

AA: I have to put extra time in with the coaches watching film and preparing for each match. We strive to find offensive matches that give us the best advantage. During games I am in communication with the coaches about what plays to run to help us succeed.

SCB: How does the SCU team dynamic play a role in your team's development?

AA: SCU has a reputation of being a great volleyball program. We are compelled and honored to continue to try to uphold those standards. Our team is super close and we all want to compete for each other.

SCB: Do you enjoy beach volleyball as well?

AA: I love beach volleyball. I started playing with my dad when I was little, and when I was old enough started competing in beach tournaments. I especially love that it comes down my partner and I to control the results.

SCB: Did you watch volleyball in the Olympics this year? Did it stir up any motivation? Who did you cheer for?

AA: I was lucky enough to be in London this summer for the Olympics and got to watch both the men's and women's teams compete live. I can't say enough about what a thrill it was to be there cheering on our country. I am so impressed that Kerrie and Misty were able to 3-peat!

Go Broncos!