MIAMI (May 1, 2020) - Next in our Q&A series is FIU indoor and beach volleyball player Emma Erteltova. The international business major closed out her sophomore campaign in 2019-20.

The Panther made 25 appearances with 14 starts during the indoor season. On the sand, Erteltova posted a 6-2 record overall including a 6-1 mark on court two with partner Ali Denney.

Q: What made you want to play both indoor and beach volleyball? When did you start playing?
A: "I started to play indoor volleyball with my sister when I was 10, and the first coach was our dad. My mom was a basketball player, so sport is written in our family DNA. The beauty of beach volleyball attracted me also very early, and I spent all summers on the sand since the age of 12."

Q: How was it coming from Slovakia and adjusting to life in the US?
A: "Life in the US is very different from Slovakia. It took me a few months to adjust to it, but with the help of coaches and supporting teammates, it was a smooth adaptation. Miami became my second home."

Q: Why did you choose to play indoor/beach volleyball at FIU?
A: "I chose to play volleyball for FIU, mainly because of the great coaches and teammates that I have here. Also, the location of FIU and its amazing weather convinced me even faster.  Now I know that it was the best decision that I could ever make."

Q: What are your favorite on the court and off the court memories with your teammates?
A: "For me, every single game is a new unforgettable memory, but one of my favorites is the first beach tournament that I played for FIU. Even though it was almost freezing, I enjoyed the whole atmosphere, and I realized how grateful I am for this team. Outside the court, I love relaxing with my teammates and with a cup of good coffee."

Q: Do you have any secret talents?
A: "It is not maybe a secret talent, but I love mountains and hiking. Also, I used to spend summers in camps where we were riding horses and sleeping in the tepee."

Q: What are your pregame rituals?
A: "I am trying to prepare mentally for every game and get focused. I also cannot play without good coffee."

Q: What are your favorite things to do off the court?
A: "Off the court, I love traveling, spending time with my family, friends, and relaxing. My free time is usually filled with other sports like hiking, cycling, or roller skating."

Q: What are your post-graduation plans?
A: "After graduation, I would like to play volleyball professionally and use all experiences and skills that I gained at FIU. Then, I want to find a job in the international business area."

SOCIAL MEDIA 
Get all the latest information on the team by following @FIUVolleyball on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook or @FIUBeachVB on Twitter, @FIU_Beach on Instagram and @FIUBeach on Facebook. General athletic news can also be found at @FIUSports on Facebook and @FIUAthletics on Twitter and Instagram.