Fresno State Athletics
Born To Be A Bulldog
10/10/2000 12:00:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
Sophomore setter Brittney Pearson has been a Bulldog from day one. Last season, Pearson got some early playing time, starting three matches due to the injury of former Bulldog Diann Aufdermaur. In 13 total matches played, Pearson recorded 158 assists and 16 kills. She had a season-high 51 assists, 10 digs and 2 service aces against Cal Poly and was the team's top dig leader in two matches. Although being thrown into the fire as just a freshman may have been difficult, the opportunity to get a head start has proved to be invaluable.
"I learned so much from that experience," Pearson said. "I got a good feel for the game and the level at which it is played. I had to learn very fast, though. The pace of the game is much faster than high school and I had to make adjustments quickly to get the job done."
This season, Pearson has found herself in the starting lineup more frequently. She and freshman Chelsey Duley are sharing time as the setter, but it is a competition that is making both women better players.
"It's very healthy," Pearson said. "We push each other to work hard and we both can get the job done. So when one of us can't get the team going, the other does. We pull for each other to do well, and that makes us better."
Pearson is a native of Sanger, Calif., just southeast of Fresno, where she was a three-year varsity starter and a three-time all-Tri River Athletic Conference selection. She played under former Bulldog volleyball standout Lynette Wilke-Lopez, so it is no wonder Pearson found Fresno State to her liking.
Last weekend, Pearson averaged 60 assists during her road trip in Texas, including a career-high 61 assists against UTEP. She and Duley are providing a solid combination, and despite their youth, have the poise of two veterans who are directing the `Dogs through Western Athletic Conference competition. Pearson knows the importance of her role, indicating the program is fully capable now, and will only be better in years down the road.
However, Pearson's focus is on this season. The team is looking to break through with a winning streak and she knows they are fully capable of it.
"I believe we have the ability to accomplish many things," Pearson said. "We work great together, we just need to be consistent and overcome our challenges. I think we have a great opportunity to finish the season strong."
