Sophomore Sam Buckley gets ready to set up her teammate in contest last season. (Photo Courtesy of the Athletic Department)

While freshman college athletes sparsely play their first year, Sam Buckley isn’t like most. Last year for the women’s volleyball team, Buckley was named All-UAA First Team and UAA Rookie of the Year. She also helped power the team to a 30-6 record and second round appearance in the NCAA tournament. Now in her second year, Buckley helped lead WashU as they swept the competition in the East to West Battle, which included defeating the #2 and #7 ranked Division III teams. During this tournament, she led the team in assists in two games and picked up a double-double (double-digit assists and digs) in the other match. This performance earned her UAA Conference Athlete of the Week. Student Life sat down with Buckley to learn more about the young but accomplished career she has had so far at WashU, as well as who she is off the court.

This Interview was edited for length and clarity.

Student Life: You are coming off a very impressive freshman year, where you were named on the All-UAA First Team and were UAA Rookie of the Year. What do you believe you did that allowed you to have such an incredible first year? 

Sam Buckley: I was very humbled to be named to all these awards last season. My teammates would constantly push each other to get 1% better every practice, and that really helped motivate me. We had amazing senior and super-senior leaders, and I tried to mimic the confidence they had on the court. I would not be able to set our hitters up in a good spot if it weren’t for the great passes I received last year. 

SL: What makes you most excited about this year’s team?

SB: The team has a super fun personality on and off the court, and I’m always laughing around them. We have a challenging schedule this year, and I’m excited to handle adversity together with them. 

SL: With 8 new freshmen joining the program, what has your role as one of the leaders been to help these new faces feel comfortable with the team?

SB: Our team is a family, so we treat everyone with the same amount of respect no matter their age. The whole team supports the freshmen whether during practices or if it’s just hanging out at the DUC, since we all know how hard the transition is to college. 

SL: What is your favorite memory as a member of the volleyball team?

SB: Definitely making the NCAA tournament last year. The whole team was sitting together and it was a really electric moment for all of us. 

SL: How did you end up at WashU?

SB: Similar to many other student-athletes here, I sought out exceptional education and playing the sport I love at a high level. 

SL: Favorite meal you have had at WashU?

SB: The wraps from Law Cafe.

SL: Favorite class/favorite teacher?

SB: Calc II with Professor Schaefer.

SL: Volleyball player you love to watch?

SB: Any of the top tier setters: Lauren Carlini, Sydney Hilley, Jhenna Gabriel, Kami Miner.