UCF Volleyball newcomer Tali Marmen took some time to reflect on her past and what she is most looking forward to during this upcoming season with the Knights. Check out her full Q+A below!
What is the role of the outside hitter and how do you go about being the best you can be at the position?
The role of the outside hitter, for me, is about making a change when most needed. A great outside hitter is one that can turn all sets, including out of system ones, into points. Being an outside hitter means having the most elements to control (serve-receive makes the difference) and therefore, more responsibilities and influence over the game.
What are you most looking forward to about playing at UCF?
Most of all, I'm looking forward to finally getting the opportunity to compete with my new teammates. Coming to UCF, I knew what their goals are. The opportunity to compete with a team that fights for first place is exactly what I was looking for and I'm excited to get on board. Other things that I find very exciting about UCF are the great coaching staff, medical staff (trainers), and our academic advisors that are always here for us. Ever since I got here, they have all helped me transition into UCF in the best way possible, showed me nothing but support, and really demonstrated how great this program is.
What was it like to play for your country as a part of the Israel National Team?
Playing for the Israeli National Team and representing my own country was an honor for me. Ever since I started playing volleyball, I grew up and developed as a player wanting to represent my country. Wearing your country's uniform and making your people proud is the greatest feeling for me. No matter how many club teams I will play for, the feeling wouldn't be the same. My favorite part was definitely singing the anthem before every game.
What was it like to serve in the Israeli Army?
I served in the Israeli Army for two years and came to the United States right after I completed my duty to the country. My role was different because of my background as an athlete. For example, I was in charge of the physical shape of those who go to war when needed. Out of the two years I served, boot camp was my favorite and most challenging experience.
We slept in tents for a whole month with our weapon underneath our pillows when we slept. We received access to our phones once a day for about 20 minutes. During camp, we learned how to build, take apart, and clean weapons, how to crawl and run with them, and how to shoot. The hardest part for me was when we had to guard the base, waking up in the middle of the night for an 8-16-hour shift. I would never want to go back on that experience as it helped make me who I am today.
What are your plans after graduation?
My plan after graduation is to go professional and make the sport that I love into a career. My ideal landing spot would be Australia because of its location. It's warm and I would get to still speak English. If there was a professional league in the United States, I would definitely want to stay.