Five Sets with Kimberly Gutierrez
10/04/2017 | Volleyball
Senior Transfer Kimberly Gutierrez is looking to make her mark on Arizona Volleyball.
Gutierrez joins the Wildcats after completing her junior year at the University of San Francisco where she played both indoor and sand volleyball.
The 5-5 libero, who was sixth in USF history with 1,114 career digs and was a member of the 2014 WCC All-Freshman Team, has made an immediate impact at Arizona. In her short time with the Wildcats, Gutierrez currently leads the team in digs per set and has produced 139 digs and 38 assists.
ArizonaWildcats.com recently sat down with Gutierrez to talk about her goals, how she got started, and more.
First Set: How did you get into volleyball?
"I got into the sport mostly because my mom and my oldest sister played."
Second Set: What has Coach Rubio taught you these last few months?
"I think the biggest thing I have learned is mental toughness and being mentally engaged. I think everything is more on the mental side of the game for me. Even though it is my first year on the team with this group, coach Rubio has taught me that it doesn't matter. If I keep my focus, I can continue to strive to be the best."
Third Set: What are your personal goals for your senior season?
"One of my biggest goals is to enjoy being here for the first time and last time. I want to experience new things and have fun with my team."
Fourth Set: What is the biggest difference in playing internationally with the Mexican National Team vs. collegiately?
"I don't think there is a huge difference. You go onto the court representing something and you have to represent it with all you have. The Mexican National Team was a big deal to me because I grew up there and lived there for a while. I was so proud to represent my family and to represent where I was from."
Fifth Set: Who is your role-model in the game & why?
"I think my biggest role model is Brenda Castillo from the Dominican Republic. She is one of the best players I have seen growing up and has become so good."
