Fraser fires up Lady Tritons

"Jumpy, responsible and silly," were the three words Volleyball Assistant Coach Jillian Kalvik used to describe Liv Fraser, a middle blocker on the Lady Triton squad. This junior biology major from Millbrook, N.Y., was selected as the Sunshine State Conference defensive player of the week after her phenomenal performance against conference rivals St. Leo University and Florida Southern College, putting up a season high of 11 blocks against FSC. She has also been recognized by the SSC Conference for her grades, making the commissioner's honor roll for the four semesters she has spent at Eckerd. Not only does Fraser stand out on the court, but she appears to exemplify the term "student-athlete."

 Although it is difficult, she is very passionate about her major, and plans on going to veterinarian school after graduation. "One of my biggest challenges is managing my heavy workload along with volleyball," Fraser admitted. She also finds time to volunteer at the Pinellas County Animal Shelter twice a week. In fact, Liv loves animals so much that she even has one here at school. Chi Chi is a two inch long dwarf hamster, who you can usually find buried under the neon purple bedding inside her red, strawberry shaped hut. "She loves crawling around on my cheetah carpet, and my head," Fraser said about some of Chi Chi's favorite activities.

When Fraser is not in class, or playing with her furry friend, she is putting in long hours at the MacArthur Gymnasium. "Liv is extremely athletic, and has quick feet and great jumping abilities," Kalvik commented. Liv proved her athleticism in high school when she lettered in volleyball, basketball, softball and track. Last season, Fraser was the only member of the team to start all 27 games. "She is vital to both our offense and defense," Kalvik added confidently. 

Aside from being an essential part of the Lady Triton's roster, Liv also brings another big asset to the team, her humor. "Liv is full of funny faces, and weird sounds. She's very playful and full of personality," Coach Kalvik laughed. Sophomore setter Madison Burr is Liv's "little sister" on the team, meaning they exchange joke gifts on game days, and decorate each other's lockers. "There is never a dull moment with (Liv)," her teammate Burr ensured. "Last year, she gave me a five foot long Transformer's cape that she sewed herself. It's hanging up on my wall, definitely the best decoration in my room."

With a little under half of the season left, Fraser's goals remain solid. "I would like to make it to the Elite 8 this year, and be the top team in our conference," she said in a determined tone while looking onto the court. Currently, Fraser is ranked fourteenth in the conference for hitting, with a percentage of .294. "I couldn't have accomplished as much as I have without the help of my coaches and teammates," Fraser added.