A weekly Q&A with Baylor's student-athletes
September 22, 2005
BEAR FACTS Archive
Melanie Hamerly
Volleyball
Senior, OH
When did you start playing your sport?
7th grade
Who has had the greatest impact on your career?
My mother
What is the best part of being a college athlete?
Getting to travel to a lot of places
If you weren't playing the sport you are now, which sport would you want to play?
Since I just got done with basketball, I would just want to play intramurals and be a normal college student
What is your nickname on the team and why?
Hammer because of my last name
After meeting coach Barnes, what was you first thought?
He's really positive. Coach demands a lot and pushes us, but he is always positive.
If you could play a different position, what would it be?
Middle Blocker
Do you have a pre-game ritual, if so what is it?
I don't really have one. I listen to my music shuffle, relax, and think about scouting reports.
What is the most unique item in your locker?
I don't really have anything unique, but I do have a Hallmark card that my parents gave me my freshman year, and I never go to a game without it. It's really wrinkly now.
Who are your favorite sports heroes?
Sheryl Swoopes, Misty May and Kerri Walsh
What athlete did you imitate when you were a kid?
Michael Jordan
Where is your favorite place to go after a game/event?
My apartment to relax
What is the best venue you have ever played in?
Indianapolis for the national game
What is the highlight of your sports career?
Getting my national ring
What is your most embarrassing sports moment?
In high school I had a fast break lay-up, bounced the ball off of my knee. It went out of bounds and I fell down.
What opposing school do you most look forward to competing against?
UT
Why did you choose to attend Baylor?
Besides the Christian atmosphere, I'm an education major and I really liked the academics and how much harder they push you here. Plus, the campus is just beautiful.
What's the most important thing you've learned as a Baylor athlete?
Time management. With traveling on the road and trying to balance everything, time management is really important.
What has been your favorite class at Baylor?
British Literature
What single thing will you most miss about Baylor when you leave?
People are so nice here and willing to help with anything - you just have to ask.
Who is your all-time favorite Baylor athlete?
Jeremy Wariner
What CD is in your player right now?
Rascal Flatts
What is the last movie you watched?
Hitch
What is one thing you must pack when traveling?
The Hallmark card from my parents
Who is your favorite Sportscenter announcer?
Robin Roberts
As a role model to young athletes, what advice can you give?
When it stops being fun, it's time to move on.
What is your favorite fast food?
Wendy's chicken nuggets
What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
Being away from my family
Name one thing that people would be surprised to learn about you.
I'm also a national champion clogger
Name one thing you can't go a week without.
Bahama Bucks Sno-cone
What is your dream job?
To coach with my mom before she retires
What's your most valued possession?
An emerald ring passed down from my grandmother
What do you consider the all-time greatest moment in sports?
When Title IX was passed and women could get scholarships.
Playstation 2 or Xbox?
Neither
Movies or TV?
TV
MTV or ESPN?
ESPN
Inflatable Judge or Bruiser?
Bruiser
Burger or Pizza?
Pizza
Penland or Memorial?
Memorial
Sandals or Shoes?
Barefoot
Cars or Trucks?
Trucks
