BAKER — Lena Daoud is a blur as she races from one spot to another as the libero on Baker School’s volleyball team. One of three seniors on the squad, Daoud brings a knowledge and enthusiasm for the game that’s contagious.
Gator volleyball Coach Tommiko Parks said Daoud has been with the Gator program since she played on the Baker middle school team and is a product of the Baker system.
“You really kind say enough about Lena,” Parks said. “On the court, I can’t even describe it. She’s our Energizer bunny.
“She does a lot of things well. She keeps us on our toes defensively. She has played a lot of volleyball and helps us strategize our defenses and that kind of thing.”
We now catch up with Lena Daoud.
Q: How old were you when you started playing volleyball?
A: I was in the seventh grade so I was about 12.
Q: What's the best part of volleyball?
A: Making a great play.
Q: What's the worst part of volleyball?
A: Probably losing.
Q: What are your expectations this season?
A: I think we are going to go far. All the girls know each other’s strengths and weaknesses so I think we will go far.
Q: If you had to pick a different sport to play, what would it be?
A: Soccer because I love hustling.
Q: What is your favorite volleyball experience?
A: Running half way across the gym and getting the ball back.
Q: What are your hobbies outside volleyball?
A: More volleyball. I read and play beach volleyball.
Q: What's your dream career?
A: I’m hoping to be a business owner and do mortgages.
Q: Do you want to play college volleyball?
A: I’d love to play college volleyball. My dream school would probably be the University of Florida because I’ve grown up watching the Gators.
Q: What is your favorite movie?
A: That’s a tough one. Probably “Get Smart.”
Q: Who is your favorite singer?
A: Chris Tomlin.
Q: If you could be a cartoon character, who would you be and why?
A: Bugs Bunny, definitely. Because he gets to mess with people and climb around.
Q: If you could go back and live in any other period in history, which one would you choose, and why?
A: I’d definitely live in the future like 2524 because you never know what the future holds.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Catching up with Lena Daoud