Senior Emma Rose solidifies position in Iona record books

Iona College senior setter Emma Rose made her mark in the school record books when she became the all-time assist leader in the volleyball team’s victory over Niagara on Oct. 27.

“It was definitely unexpected when it happened,” Rose said in an email interview. “It was never something I put emphasis on. I just try to be the best for my teammates.”

Rose is currently having her best season in terms of assists, leading the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference with 11.94 assists per set. She is on the verge of having another 1000+ assist season,  as she has 919 so far.

Rose thinks the success she has had on the court this season is a reflection of her teammates’ support.

“I think it’s a great reflection of my team and the work we’ve put in,” Rose said. “That’s what I really love most about being a setter and about playing volleyball -– it takes everyone to make one play happen, or to reach a personal milestone. I couldn’t break any records without great passers, or great hitters. It’s truly a game of teamwork[…]and that’s what makes this so special.”
​After sweeping Niagara and Canisius on the road, the Gaels improved to 13-1 in conference play, and currently remain in first place with only four games remaining in the season. Rose is confident in Iona’s ability to win it all.

“Being at the top is a great feeling, and [a] new one to this Iona group,” Rose said. “We are used to feeding off the idea of being the underdog and proving ourselves. We come into the gym every day to prove ourselves and know there’s still work to do. Having that mentality has definitely made us confident and hardworking.”

Rose’s game has progressed substantially and as a result, she has become the glue to the team’s offense. With multiple double-doubles and 40-50 assist games under her belt, she only continues to improve her game day by day.

“This season is more emotional than my previous three–I think that’s typical for a senior athlete,” Rose said. “Developing as a player and watching my fellow seniors master their game has been what makes this season really stand out.”

“We have all taken on a leadership role of our own and have a lot of emotion invested in this team,” Rose continued. “There is a collective attitude of hard work and togetherness that I love about this group. I think we all just want to make a statement and show everyone that this is our year.”
​Rose doesn’t let the thought of playing in her final season affect her game. Instead, she uses her senior season to motivate herself.

“I think about this season being my last one all the time,” Rose said. “I don’t think it affects my play. I think I can speak on behalf of my teammates when I say that we work hard all the time. One thing about this team is [that] we have a lot of love, and we truly behave as a family. Though it may be my senior season, it’s also someone’s sophomore season, or someone’s junior season, etc. I want to do well for my teammates and that’s reciprocated everyday throughout the team. Placing focus on the team aspect of the game has made me tremendously proud of my teammates, as well as pushed me to work harder. That’s what’s special about this team.”