Lauren Patterson feature athlete interview – signed with McNeese State University

1. Why did you decide to sign with McNeese State University?

Close to my hometown so my parents can come to my games. High rate of athletes get their degrees. Small hometown feel. I am in my own apartment with a player I played club volleyball with and loving college atmosphere.

2. Describe the excitement you feel about becoming a college student-athlete?

I love my team and coach! All the coaches know what they are doing and they are working us hard and challenging each and every one of us. I did not want to go to school and it be easy. I want to be challenged! I am a little overwhelmed worrying about how to balance classes and volleyball but McNeese provides a lot of support so I will do fine.

3. What advice would you give to other athletes looking to get recruited?

As far as volleyball you need to play for a club that does a great job of working with college recruiters. Make good grades in high school and from the beginning of your junior year start taking your SAT and ACT tests to get your scores as high as possible. Make a recruiting page and send out your club schedule to colleges to let them know when you play and make sure they have your jersey number. I was committed by my junior year but never took my recruiting page down and all during my senior year I was approached by colleges. It takes a lot of pressure off your senior year if you have made a decision your junior year.

4. Who has been the biggest influence in your sports career and why?

My parents because they have stood by me every step of the way. As a family we prayed before I committed and once I made my decision I did not have a doubt in the world. My parents have made great sacrifices to make sure I had the best training, allowed to play at a high profile club and supported me by coming to my games. They continue to support me by helping me adjust to college life away from home. I feel very blessed and do not want to let them down. So when practices are hard I just work harder and remember I have a lot of people pulling for me and supporting me every step of the way.

5. What would you like to accomplish during college sports career?

I want to start all four years in college. I want to make all-conference. I want to be a leader and team captain for my team. I want to be known as a team player and hard worker. Someone incoming freshman will look up to me when I am no longer a freshman.

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