HONOLULU – University of Hawai'i sophomore outside hitter Nikki Taylor participated in a live chat, Thursday, October 2 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., on UH's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HawaiiAthletics.
 
In her freshman season, Nikki was named first team all-Big West and was an honorable mention all-region selection.

Below is the transcript of the live chat:

Q: What was your decision to stay home and play for our home state? BTW, keep up your awesome work! GO 'BOWS!
NT: UH felt like home. I was always really comfortable with the campus and with the volleyball program. Also, I was/am glad to get to play in front of my family

Q: Does your brother Josh ever give you volleyball tips (No pun intended) that you use during a match? If so, what are they?
NT: Yeah he does. Tells me to let my body do what it knows to do. Also, to not overthink.

Q: Beach game help any?
NT: Helps exponentially! helped me gain speed and increase my vertical leap.

Q: If you didn't get injured, do you think UH could be 12-0? Without you, the 3 losses were really close games....
NT: It was tough not being out there and having to watch from the sidelines. As for our record, I think our chances for winning the Big West look good.

Q: Always enjoy the Rainbow Wahine Volleyball Team... Much respect to you all... Shout out from the Gila River Indian Community located in the Great State of Arizona.
NT: Sending Aloha to the great state of Arizona!

Q: Hope your elbow is better. Do you feel more comfortable hitting on the left or right? We really need an opposite hitter.
NT: Elbow is better, thanks for asking! I'm a little more comfortable on the outside but wherever Dave puts me is where I'll produce.

Q: What are your plans in the future?
NT: Plans are to play overseas if I get the opportunity. After that, get my degree in teaching and start a family.

Q: What is your favorite food and what do you like most about being a rainbow wahine?
NT: I eat all kinds of food, don't have a favorite! I like being able to represent my home and play for Dave and Scott.

Q: How old were you when you started playing vb?
NT: I was 14 years old when I started.

Q: What words of encourgement would you give little girls who plays volleyball
NT: Have fun while the game isn't so serious! Also, work hard on honing skills.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a 12-yo girl who has been playing volleyball for about four years now and loves it, and wants to continue playing into high school and college what would that be?
NT: I would tell her to have fun while the game is not too serious and try to instigate contact with college coaches once she starts high school.

Q: When are you going to be playing for the U.S. in the Olympics?
NT: Whenever I get the opportunity. Excited to see you in the stands at the Olympics!

Q: What other schools did you consider when getting recruited?
NT: Nebraska and UCLA.

Q: Nikki, how long have you been playing volleyball?
NT: I started playing volleyball when I was 14 yrs. old.

Q: How does it feel to be on the team playing for Dave Shoji?
NT: Great! It's an honor to play Dave and a blessing to be a Rainbow Wahine.

Q: Stay healthy, have fun, and be the best you can be. GO BOWS!!
NT: Thanks! GO BOWS!

Q: If you could vacation anywhere in the world, where would go and with who?
NT: I'd go to Phnom Penh, Cambodia with my family.

Q: Do you prefer hitting on the left side or right side?
NT: Left, but I'll hit wherever Dave puts me.

Q: What made you decide to attend UH Manoa?
NT: Dave Shoji! I knew he would morph me into a player that was capable of playing in the Olympics. Playing in front of my immediate family was important too.

Q: How is your TEAM CHEMISTRY? Does everyone get along?
NT: Our team chemistry is good. Yes, everyone gets along.

Q: What was last weekends road trip like with all the newbies? Did it bring back any memories of your first rod trip with the team?
NT: he newbies were fun on the road. Road trips are all pretty similar so it definitely brought back some memories!.

Q: Do you have any specific pre-game rituals? Music you like to listen to before the games?
NT: I brush my teeth 45 min. before every match then I pray with my Dad five min. prior to the start of warmups. I also always touch the corner where the sideline and net meet with my right foot when running to high-five the opponent at the net before the match.

Q: Aloha!! What Or Who Will Be The Toughest Team You Will See This Year? Go Bows-
NT: I go in thinking all teams will be a challenge!

Q: We're very happy to have you back on the court!
NT: Thanks for your support!

Q: What did sitting on the sidelines during the pre-season feel like? Also, how's your arm coming along?
NT: It was frustrating to sit on the sideline but it gave me a good insight into the game. My arm is coming along well.

Q: What is your favorite food?
NT: I don't have a favorite food. I like eating all kinds.

Q: Love the way you play . Being that you're in hawaii have you tried to surf ? How can I get a autograph photo of you ?
NT: I've surfed before, yes. We might be having an autograph session after one of our matches so stay tuned! -NT