Fresno State Athletics
United We Stand
9/28/2001 12:00:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
Sept. 27, 2001
FRESNO, Calif. - The Fresno State women's volleyball team had a similar reaction to most people's upon hearing the news of the tragic terrorist attacks throughout the United States on Tuesday, Sept. 11. They were shocked.
"I think it was a shock for all of us," junior outside hitter Christy Burnett said. "It was hard because we felt very far away from everything, but we were able to maintain our focus and get through practice."
Though the team finished out the week's practices, matches scheduled for the following weekend at the University of San Diego Invitational were cancelled.
"It was an unexpected break. We had a couple of days to regroup, relax and get refocused for our next competition," Burnett said. "This national tragedy affected all Americans and those worldwide. It makes you understand more that the freedom and opportunities given should not be taken for granted.
Apropos. For Burnett, who had a brief break in her collegiate career, she is making the most of her volleyball experience since rejoining the Bulldogs two years ago. And this fiery competitor is defining every moment.
Burnett, who returns as the team's top dig leader, has not relented on her defense. Leading the team in digs with a 3.17 dig per game average, the history major has tallied 10 or more digs in seven of her first nine matches. She also recorded her first career 20-plus dig match this season with 21 against Florida State. Not only does Burnett return as one of the Bulldogs' top offensive threats, her skill in blocking has heated up as she has averaged at least one block in every match but two this season.
The Bulldogs are realizing what solid teamwork can do despite any setbacks. True the team went 0-3 to start the year off but that did not dissway the 'Dogs. After tallying two more victories in the North Gym last weekend, they are looking to extend their six-game winning streak. Already with one Western Athletic Conference victory under its belt, Fresno State enters this week with confidence and excitement.
And Burnett will be right there to take charge of every opportunity given.
