Athlete of the Week: Taylor Cimillo

Photo courtesy of Marissa Contelmo.

Sport: Volleyball

Year: Third

Major: Business

Hometown: Monsey, New York

 

How Did You First Start Playing Volleyball?

I first started playing volleyball when I was in 7th grade. My older sister played and she inspired me to start playing too. I loved going to watch her games and she really taught me the basics of volleyball the summer prior to 7th grade tryouts, so I owe it all to her.

Outside Of Playing Volleyball, What Do You Like To Do?

Outside of volleyball I like to lift and workout, learn new songs on the guitar, read and go to the beach as much as I can in the summer.

Who Are Your Biggest Role Models?

I have a few big role models. One being Bethany Hamilton, the professional surfer. I also look to Kerri Walsh Jennings, the Olympic beach volleyball player. Both of these women are outstanding athletes and overall great people in general. I strive to be like both of them because of their work ethic and overall competitiveness.

Are You A Fan Of Any Professional Teams?

I’m a pretty big New York Yankees fan because I love going to games in the summertime with my dad.

Do You Have Any Sports-Related Superstitions?

I have a few sports superstitions.  One is that I have to do the same warm up and stretch routine before every game and if I don’t I just feel off the entire match. Another one is wearing the same knee pads on each knee for the game. My teammates and I also all have certain handshakes we do with each other before each set.

What’s Your Favorite Sports Memory?

My favorite sports memory would probably be from my senior year of high school when my high school team (Suffern High School) and I won the NYSPHSAA state championships for volleyball. It was such an inspiring experience because the town threw us parades and ceremonies for a month straight and I remember every aspect of that match to this day and can replay it in my head.