Nicole Whan is a senior on the Dowagiac volleyball team.

What has been one of your greatest accomplishments as an athlete?

NW: Verbally committing to play volleyball at Lawrence Tech University.

What has been one of your biggest disappointments as an athlete?

NW: Losing In the regional finals my sophomore year.

Who is a “hero” in your life and why?

NW: My father, because of how strong he has been through the tough situations he has faced.

When are you the most nervous while you are competing?

NW: Probably before the game, during the warm up.

Describe an embarrassing athletic moment.

NW: One time when I was in eighth grade, playing club volleyball, I was at a tournament, and I served a ball out of bounds, but instead of going just a little bit out of bounds, the ball went a little too far and a little too high. It went far enough that the ball landed perfectly on a coach’s cup of coffee who was on the next court over, causing it to explode all over the coach and one of his players. 

How do you tend to workout/train when by yourself?

NW: I lift weights, mainly focusing on improving my vertical.

What other sport would you like to compete in if you were not playing yours?

NW: Basketball or softball.

Why are sports an important part of a high school experience?

NW: They can help you make friends and can be a good stress reliever.

How would you give away $50,000?

NW: I would give half of it to Gull Lake Ministries. I have been attending family camp there every summer ever since I was a newborn. This camp helps families grow stronger in their faith and grow closer together. I would then give the other half to CIY (Christ in Youth). This organization helps kids around the country, and now the world, grow closer to God. They also give middle schoolers and high schoolers the opportunity to go on mission trips around the world to help those in need and spread the word of the Lord.   

If you could be the head coach of a team for a year, what team would you choose?

NW:  A freshmen team at a high school.

If I did not play sports, I would…?

NW: I would probably bake more I like doing it for fun, but I don’t usually have time.

What is the most challenging thing for you to do in your sport?

NW: Not get in my own head and have a negative attitude.

If you could change one rule about your sport, what would it be?

NW: I honestly wouldn’t change any rules.

What is the best compliment you have ever received?

NW: A rival coach came up to me after a game and gave me a couple compliments.

What was the scariest thing you have had to do? Are you glad you did it?

NW: Moving to Dowagiac. I am glad I did. I know that it probably wasn’t easy for my team to adjust to a new setter, but they have been very welcoming, kind and hard working. I also appreciate Coach [Tony] Hooley helping me get adjusted to a new program and how competitive he is.

What was the last thing you saw someone do that really impressed you?

NW: My cousin did a back flip.

What is your favorite hobby? Why?

NW: Volleyball. I love the sport and the friendships that have come from playing it.

Choose one word to describe yourself:

NW: Different.