The UCF volleyball team heads into its 10th season under head coach Todd Dagenais. Leading into preseason camp, UCFKnights.com will provide player profiles on the 16 student-athletes wearing the Black and Gold this season.
Jiayi Zhang
6-6 | MB/OPP | Jr.
Beijing, China
Major: Computer Science
Why did you choose UCF?
JZ: I chose to transfer to UCF because of its competitive volleyball program and strong academics. I am from a big city, and I really wanted to go to school in a big city as well.
How do you want people to remember you at UCF?
JZ: I want people to remember me as someone who is caring and hard-working.
What is your favorite thing about campus?
JZ: I just really enjoy going to school in a big and beautiful campus. It is very similar to what I thought an American college campus is like.
What is your best UCF memory?
JZ: When I first came to visit, I immediately fell in love with the school.
What is something that people might be surprised to know about you?
JZ: I went to a sports school for a year when I was 13, where I had a half day of volleyball practice and a half day of school every weekday.
When and why did you start playing volleyball?
JZ: I started playing volleyball when I was 10. I grew up in an athletic family. My mom and my grandfather played volleyball.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
JZ: I like to watch movies.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
JZ: Use your strengths to overcome your weaknesses. My mom always encouraged me to discover my strengths and learn to use them in life.
What other sports did you play growing up?
JZ: I played tennis when I was five. I stopped playing because I realized I would be too tall for tennis when I grew up.
Who is your role model?
JZ: My mom is definitely my role model. I always wish one day I could be as good as her in volleyball.
DON'T MISS OUT
UCF Volleyball hits the court for its 10th season under head coach Todd Dagenais. Don't miss a single minute of action at The Venue. Visit UCFKnights.com or call (407) 823-1000 for ticket information.
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