Air Force Academy

Oct. 18, 2007

This week on "Off the Court with the Falcons", Air Force fans get the chance to meet Ellen Bina, a 5-5 defensive specialist from Orion, Ill. The junior, who has missed the last seven weeks with an injury, is slated to make her return to the lineup during this weekend's matches against TCU and New Mexico. Prior to the injury, Bina played in the first three matches and accounted for a pair of service aces, as well as nine digs.

GETTING TO KNOW ... Ellen Bina

How did you get started in volleyball?

-- Summer camp in 5^th grade.

How do you balance your athletics, academics and military duties?

-- I make a schedule and each item has a specific slot.

Who is your favorite non-volleyball athlete(s) at the Academy?

-- Keith Williams, because he is the hardest working football player I know.

What is your favorite class and why?

-- English, because I love to read and experience new ideas.

What is your favorite place on the Academy grounds and why?

-- I love to go camping and hiking, so anywhere west of the Academy is my favorite.

What do you like best/least about playing on the road?

-- I hate flying, but I love visiting new places.

How do you feel that you are developing into a future Air Force officer?

-- I am still working on it.

What is your advice for young volleyball players?

-- To remember that volleyball is important, but what you learn from those on your team is more important.

What are some disadvantages of being tall/short?

-- Being short makes it difficult to reach the things in the top of my locker.

Who are your biggest fans?

-- My mom and dad

What do you want your legacy to be?

-- (That I was) hardworking, fair, honest, and caring

What did you work on most in the off-season to prepare for the upcoming season?

-- Shuffling

What are some of the favorite classes you've taken at the Academy?

-- I really enjoyed Electrical Engineering and Physics 215.

What is the best thing about getting a really good dig?

-- Knowing that you just helped your teammates out and that the girl who hit the ball is disappointed.

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