With the 2020 volleyball season and the rise of the Brent Crouch era on the horizon, we're getting to know the trio of incoming freshmen set to make their debut this fall. Our series concludes with Lily Sumner, a middle blocker from Carmel, Ind.
Q: Why did you choose to play volleyball at Auburn?
Sumner: I chose to play at Auburn because I wanted to be a part of a competitive team while receiving a great education at the same time. Auburn was the perfect fit for me.
Q: With a brand new staff, what are you excited about for the upcoming season?
Sumner: I am excited to build a strong foundation with the staff and my team in order to make a difference on the court. We are ready to win.
Q: What jersey number will you wear? Does that hold any special meaning to you?
Sumner: I will be wearing #13 this season. This number is typically seen as unlucky, but it holds special meaning to me. It reminds me that working hard and staying focused is the only reliable path to success. I make my own luck.
Q: What is your favorite Auburn tradition so far?
Sumner: My favorite Auburn tradition is saying "War Eagle" as a greeting. It's a simple, yet expressive way to show your school pride, and I love it.
Q: Do you have any pre-match rituals or superstitions?
Sumner: Before every match, I take my time putting on my ankle braces, kneepads and shoes. I take deep breaths and visualize my game plan during that time.
Q: If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three items would you bring with you?
Sumner: I would bring sunscreen because I hate sunburns, a volleyball to keep me busy, and lastly, I would bring flint so I could make fire.
Q: What is your favorite home-cooked meal?
Sumner: My favorite home-cooked meal is lasagna because my mom makes it with a great family recipe. Lasagna reminds me of my home.
Q: As a freshman, in what ways do you believe you can make a positive impact on the team this year?
Sumner: I believe I can bring good energy to the court and the team as well as make a difference with my speed and quick arm.
Q: What is an interesting fact about yourself that the Auburn family should know?
Sumner: I used to model in New York Fashion Week.
Q: What is your intended major and why did you choose it?
Sumner: I am majoring in art history and minoring in business because I want to be a museum curator one day.
Q: What advice would you give to your younger self who just started her volleyball career?
Sumner: I would tell my younger self to not compare herself to others because individuality is what makes you special.
Q: What makes Auburn volleyball special?
Sumner: Auburn volleyball is my new home. I feel very welcome and I can't wait to spend the next four years in a place that I love with people that I love.