SpikeNet & Friends Episode 18
- 19 hours ago
- 2 min read
From Winter Park to Arizona State, and a college debut on one of volleyball’s biggest stages.
In this episode of SpikeNet & Friends, we sit down with Elle Mottola, Orlando native, Arizona State freshman setter, and one of the newest faces making an immediate impact in NCAA volleyball.
Elle shares what it felt like to make her college debut at the AVCA First Serve event in Milwaukee, competing in the Fiserv Forum against defending national champion Texas. From the nerves and excitement of the moment to earning MVP honors in her first collegiate match, she takes us inside a memory she says still feels like a blur.
We talk about the transition from club volleyball to the college game, adapting to Arizona State’s fast offense, developing trust with her hitters, and embracing the responsibility of running a high-level 5–1 system. Elle also discusses the importance of consistency, decision-making, blocking, and staying composed through every point.
Elle reflects on her years at Winter Park Volleyball Club, the power of loyalty, and the connection she built with the same core group of teammates over the years, including now sharing the Arizona State journey with her lifelong best friend and teammate, Paige. She also shares the influence of her athletic family, the lessons learned from her parents, and why staying confident, humble, and focused on the next play has helped shape her approach to the game.
From recovering from a shin injury before her freshman season to stepping onto the court against one of the nation’s top programs, Elle’s story is about patience, preparation, and trusting that your opportunity will come.
Elle, thank you for sharing your story with the SpikeNet family and congratulations on an incredible start to your Arizona State journey.
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