Lamarcardinals.com grabbed Ashley Todd for a quick chat the other day. Take a look at what the senior setter had to say.

Lamarcardinals.com: Going back to before this season started, you had the reigning Southland Conference Setter of the Year in teammate Adrianne Meengs in front of you as the starter, and there was no guarantee you would be setting this season. How were you preparing yourself for your senior year?

A.T.: I had my position as a player that would come in and serve and play defense, and I was really okay with that. I just prepared myself to do whatever I needed to do to make this team win. Ady is an amazing setter and so whatever I needed to do, whether it be setting, play defense or play middle blocker I was willing to do anything.

Lamarcardinals.com: When we found out that Ady was sick and you were going to be back starting at the setting position, what went through your mind and how have things developed as the season has played out.

A.T.: It has been such a blessing to be able to come in and set. I’ve been setting since I was 10 years old, so when coach told me that was the situation, I knew that this is what I’m supposed to do for the team this year. Everyday I come in and try to do my best for the team. It was hard when Ady was out because we definitely push each other pretty well. Now that she’s back it’s definitely a battle. Coach tells us every day that we have to work hard because he’s going to use both of us in key matches. I think this has just been a blessing for me and I’m happy to have had this opportunity.

Lamarcardinals.com: What’s the most important thing in your life?

A.T.: My family and my faith. Volleyball is a big part of my life too. Everybody says it’s just a sport, but it’s been just a sport for 11 years of my life every day, so it’s pretty important as well.

Lamarcardinals.com: What are your plans after you leave Lamar University?

A.T.: I’m going to move back home to the Austin area for a little bit and I want to do personal training. Hopefully I’ll get married sometime in the near future, but I don’t know where I’ll be then.

Lamarcardinals.com: You dad and step mother have been to every match you’ve played in your career here at Lamar. How much does it mean to you?

A.T.: I don’t even have words for it. They have just been my rock though all the ups and downs in volleyball and school because it really is an emotional roller coaster. Having them there in the stands is such a blessing that I can’t really describe.

Lamarcardinals.com: You are always smiling. Even when I’ve seen you get mad on the court, you were still smiling. Why are you always smiling and so happy all the time? Is it just a cover?

A.T.: No, it’s not a cover. I really just love life and being here with the friends I have. Nothing is really worth being upset about. I don’t have any huge things going on and when I do I can just go to the Lord and give my problems to him and I know he takes care of them. That’s all I can really say.

Lamarcardinals.com: Well hopefully we’ll have a lot more to smile about over the next couple of weeks as you all close out the season. Thanks for stopping by Ashley.