After being named Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year in 2017, sophomore setter and right-side hitter Jamie Smith has established herself as one of the key players on the Iona College volleyball team.

Last season Smith was able to make her presence known both offensively and defensively, registering 332 kills and 255 digs , while helping the Gaels make it to the conference championship game against Fairfield.

One thing Smith has noticed about the volleyball team is how their chemistry and strong bond has played a major role in their play on the court.

“We have 13 players on our team, and every single girl on our team is able to contribute,” Smith said. “Whether that be on the bench or on the court, everyone is equal on this team. We have a really good culture, where everyone respects one another.”  

Volleyball tends to be one of the few sports that requires all parts of a player’s body. Not only does a player have to be agile and versatile, but a quick thinker. Smith thinks that one of the main skills that a volleyball player should have is mental toughness.

“When you are put into difficult situations in a games, like pressure situations, a lot of it is how you respond,” Smith said. “If you’re mentally tough you are able to persevere and get through the tough times.”

The volleyball team, which has a 3-4 record, opened conference play with a sweep against rival Manhattan College. Smith finished off with six kills, four digs, an ace, and a block. Although the team won, she knows there’s still a lot of work to be done.

“For us, it’s not about wins and losses,” Smith said. “It’s about our growth as a whole and getting better. We’re just looking to take it game by game and just ultimately put our product on the floor in the best way that we can.”   

All teams in the MAAC have a competitive edge. As conference play continues, Smith is looking for that competitive drive day in and day out.

“Every game is a battle,” Smith said. “Our performance in preseason will be effective on the court in conference season.”