1 on 1 CONVERSATION: Becka Pittard

By Rudy Coggins
Published in Sports on September 11, 2015 1:48 PM

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Goldsboro High junior Becka Pittard has shown tremendous improvement on the volleyball court since her freshman season. That development along with travel ball experience has her in position to break several GHS program records.

The News-Argus conducted a Q&A with Pittard about an hour before the Cougars' home match with North Johnston earlier this week.

Q: What do people not know about you outside of the classroom and off of the volleyball court?

A: I really don't do much, but stay at home a lot. I either read, go run or help out around the house. I really like to get ahead in my (class) work. I like to read novels ... the Percy Jackson series because of the thrill of it, you can grip on to it.

Q: What has it been like for you to adjust to playing sports with a hearing aid?

A: It was a little bit hard. But with the help of my teammates, it made it easier. My setter Matti (Rose Lyon) tells me to say "yeah, yeah," so she knows to connect to me and talk to me louder on the court. My teammates are really supportful if I need help. I usually lip read sometimes, but other than that I just focus and go after the ball.

Q: What do you like about volleyball?

A: The thrill of it. The motivation of the team and how we work together, how (hard) we work to get the next point.

Q: You've played volleyball for three years. What's been the easiest thing for you to pick up on as a player?

A: The open spots on the court. (Along) with my hearing disability, I also have a seeing (impairment). With my goggles, I have sharp vision and see things easier on the court.

Q: What has been the one thing about your game that you've had to work on the most?

A: My snapping down ... getting quicker and stronger on my hitting. I just want to get better in the middle, any position actually.

Q: You have been playing with the Eastern Elite Volleyball Club team. How has that helped you as a player?

A: They have helped grow my ability to play back row, become an all-around player, help my serve, help me be a team leader. I was a captain on the 16-Under (EEVC) team last year. I've learned from every player. You meet and make new friends from all around. It's really great because I get new setters every year, even though I'd like the same setter back.

Q: Do you have thoughts of playing college volleyball when you graduate?

A: Yes, but I'm not picking any specific college. If I don't go to college to play volleyball, I'm not giving up on college. I'm thinking about it yes ... just hoping. (Editor's note: Goldsboro head coach TJ Lancaster said Pittard is receiving attention from Lenoir-Rhyne and Averett (Va.) University.)