Quick Hits with Rachel Baumstark - Huskers.com - Nebraska Athletics Official Web Site

Full Name: Rachel Ann Baumstark
Nickname: Rach, R.D. (Rach Dog)
Position: Outside hitter
Class: Redshirt sophomore
Major: Business Administration.
Birthday: May 5, 1982.
Hometown: Hermann, Mo.
Parents: Danny and Ruth Baumstark
Siblings and ages: Megan 22, Jamie 17, Chelsea 15

Update
Redshirt sophomore Rachel Baumstark (pronounced BOMB-stark) was a heralded recruit and 1999; a three-time Four Rivers All-Conference honoree and Nebraska Individual Camp MVP. However, the Hermann, Mo., native has struggled with injuries ever since. Baumstark redshirted the 2000 season while rehabilitating from a torn left anterior cruciate ligament she suffered while in high school. Baumstark impressed the coaches during spring practices in 2001 and was competing for playing time, but a second ACL tear sidelined her again for the 2001 season.

Through persistence and hard work, Baumstark completed the rehabilitation process a second time and was cleared for the 2002 season. She made her collegiate debut against Alabama Sept. 14, recording two kills on a .333 hitting percentage. Head Coach John Cook called Baumstark an unorthodox, deceptive attacker, and said she was providing NU valuable depth on the left side. But injury struck again. Baumstark tore two ligaments in her left ankle two weeks ago in practice. She underwent surgery Oct. 3, and will sit out for the remainder of the season.

Chat Wrap
Q: Why did you choose Nebraska?
A: Because of the rich volleyball tradition, awesome staff, and family-like atmosphere.

Q: What is your favorite thing about Nebraska volleyball?
A: The fans and my teammates

Q: What is your best memory from the 2001 season?
A: Being able to form brand new relationships with the freshmen.

Q: Who is the volleyball player you look up to the most?
A: Logan Tom

Q: What is the best moment from your volleyball career is:
A: Winning the national championship in 2000.

Q: Which teammate do you admire?
A: Laura Pilakowski

Q: What do you like the most about Coach Cook?
A: His ability to pick out the smallest details to make something or someone better.

Q: Which player on this team do you think will surprise fans the most?
A: Olivia Waldowski

Q: If you could coach the team for one day, what would you do?
A: Play deep court all day.

Q: When did you start playing volleyball?
A: When I was in fourth grade.

Q: What is your favorite sport other than volleyball?
A: Intramural Basketball

Q: What do you like to do when you