Senior libero Alyssa Rio stands out on the volleyball court for all the right reasons.
She's an anchor for a Ball State team that has started its season 13-3. She's brought consistency and outstanding play to the Ball State women's volleyball backcourt, helping the defense become steady.
"Alyssa plays with aggression and confidence," first-year coach Steve Shondell said. "She's one of the best defenders in the nation."
One of the best defenders in the nation is not an overstatement. Rio leads the nation with 5.95 digs per set.
"I was shocked when I found out I was leading the nation in digs per set," she said. "It's something I never thought would happen. I'm just doing what I've got to do to help the team."
Rio was sidelined for the nonconference portion of last season with a leg injury. The injury occurred in the season opener's first set at Purdue.
She was a bit rusty when she returned in Mid-American Conference action. Despite the time off, Rio managed 276 digs in 70 sets, averaging 3.94 digs per set.
By the end of the season, Rio re-established herself as Ball State's top defender and was showing flashes of things to come.
"Alyssa is a great role model and team leader," junior defensive specialist Kaylee Schembra said. "She inspires us and motivates us to have the attitude that the ball isn't going to hit the floor, no matter what."
Rio is the epitome of a team player. When a teammate has a question, Rio is there to answer it. She's vocal during matches and practice, shouting encouragement to her teammates.
She's also instilled the never-say-die attitude the defense lives by.
Assistant coach Kelli Miller, a former Purdue libero, is not surprised at Rio's impact on her teammates or the defense's strength this season.
"It's good defense. There's no secret to what we're doing," Miller said. "It's all about the attitude and effort."
That same attitude has brought Rio to the pinnacle of college volleyball, making her one of the best defenders in the nation.
"It's my last year, and I want to make the most of it," Rio said. "I'm not looking for praise. I'm just doing my job."
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