MARY ORDING »» VOLLEYBALL BADGERING...
Mary Ording, a 6-foot-3 middle blocker from Carmel, Ind., is wrapping up her senior season on the Badgers volleyball team. After playing every front row position her first three years, Ording has earned a starting role this season at middle blocker and has set career bests in nearly every statistical category.
You've played every front row position. How does it feel to be back at middle blocker? "It's opened my eyes to every position. Every position has things that are very difficult, but every position also has things that are very fun. Being back in the middle is where I've always played growing up, so its nice getting back there and doing things I grew up doing."
You've set career highs in nearly every category this season. What has been the key? "It's knowing that it is a new position and it is a starting position. My teammates have been really helpful and we've worked out the kinks and things have gotten better as the season has went on."
As a rehabilitation psychology and special education major, what are your your plans? "Right now, it's hopefully going to grad school for occupational therapy, but there are also some internship opportunities or maybe Teach for America. There are a lot of options."
One of your favorite things to do off the court is cook. What is your specialty? "My specialty is also my secret recipe. It's apple pie, and it's the only thing I do well in the kitchen. I like to cook but I'm not good at it! The pie is something that my mom always made and she found it in a cookbook at home. Anybody who's had it, says they haven't had anything like it before, so I'm very lucky that it's my little secret. And I don't share it!"
With your senior season winds down, what are you going to miss most about UW? "I think just seeing my teammates and playing a sport I love every day. It's going to be different and I'm excited about the future, but it's going to be weird not seeing the people I consider my family every single day. Not being on the team anymore might be the hardest thing about leaving."
26 » VARSITY NOVEMBER 1, 2012
