At a glance
Name: Meredith Rice
University: Idaho
Sport: Volleyball
Number: 14
Year: Senior
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Los Angeles, Calif.
Q: When and why did you start to play volleyball?
A: When I was 11 years old my brother told me that I should be a volleyball player and I worshipped him so I got into it.
Q: What other sports did you play growing up?
A: Baseball, basketball, softball, soccer and golf.
Q: What has been your most rewarding experience off the court?
A: Working with the Youth Special Olympics
Q: Why did you choose to become a Vandal?
A: I'm from a big city and I liked the change of atmosphere. I love the size of the town and the campus. I liked the team dynamic and the mentality of Vandal volleyball.
Q: What is your favorite childhood memory?
A: At night I would have tickle wars with my dad at bedtime. I would squeal but I loved every second. The best was when my brothers would run in and it would be a war in my parent's bed.
Q: What do you consider your greatest accomplishment so far as a student-athlete?
A: When I had an article written on me about my involvement with Special Olympics and the organization Get Kids Going! That is who I am on the court as well as off. It was nice to be acknowledged for something I am so passionate about that could help make a difference.
Q: What do you still hope to accomplish as a student-athlete?
A: To help my team get to the NCAA Tournament.
Q: What's on your iPod?
A: Everything from Lil' Wayne to Keith Urban. I've got something for every mood or occasion.
Q: What do you like to do when you are away from the court?
A: Watch movies, anything creative or artistic, take pictures, sleep, think about volleyball.
Q: If you had to live on a desert island for a year and could only take three items with you, what would you take?
A: A SLR Canon Camera, a year supply of bottled water, and a journal.
Q: Name your favorite class…
A: Psychology of personality
Q: What is your game day routine?
A: Other than what is planned for us already I'm pretty simple, but superstitious about some stuff. I just make sure I get to listen to my ipod and write in my goal book. I also wear these Nike wristbands that say "Respect, Heart, Commitment" and I tuck them in my kneepad. I also wear a ribbon representing Haley Larson's (my best friend) older brother who was killed in Iraq when we were in high school.
Q: What are your expectations for your team this season?
A: To do well in the WAC. I expect us to be a top team in the conference.
Q: What is your favorite television show?
A: Frasier, Prison Break, and Grey's Anatomy
Q: Who has had the most influence on your life?
A: My parents and two brothers
Q: What are your plans following graduation?
A: I would like to work with kids with mental disabilities. Specifically autism.
Q: What is the best advice you have received?
A: "Make a difference" from my dad.
Q: Who is your favorite professional athlete?
A: Pro-volleyball player: Jenny Johnson Jordan. Other pro: Brendan Ryan from the St. Louis Cardinals. He was one of my brother's best friends growing up.
Q: If Hollywood were to make a movie about your life, which actress would play your role?
A: Jessica Biel. She super athletic.
Q: If you were to win a million dollars what would be your first purchase?
A: I'd give half to my parents. I owe them at least that much for the last 22 years of emptying their pockets.
Q: Describe the perfect meal…
A: This is hard! I'll just go with my favorites. A little sushi, avocado egg rolls and an In-N-Out Burger.