With first serve of the 2021 season less than a month away, Auburn volleyball preps for a full fall slate under head coach Brent Crouch. As the season approaches, we'll introduce the six new Tigers donning an Auburn uniform for the first time in their careers. Next up is Rebekah Rath, an Altamonte Springs, Fla., native and transfer from the University of Maryland.
Q: Why did you choose to continue your career at Auburn?
Rath: I chose Auburn because I really liked the coaches, the campus and the girls on the team. Everyone is so kind, and I really enjoyed getting to know the coaches through the transfer process. I like the system the coaches use. I also wanted to stay in the Power Five, and Auburn was relatively close to home. Auburn fit everything I was looking for.
Q: How do you think your experience at Maryland will make you an asset to the team?
Rath: I think my experience at Maryland will help me a lot. I was able to play high-level volleyball and learned a lot about the game playing in the Big Ten. It really helped me to grow as a player and as a person. I have been in high-pressure situations before and I think that will help me as the SEC is another high-level conference.
Q: What are you most looking forward to experiencing at Auburn?
Rath: I am really excited to experience college town life. Maryland was very urban so we didn't have traditions like rolling Toomer's Corner and other game day events. I really like the small town vibes and how welcoming everyone is. I also am excited to play in the SEC. I love playing new teams and having new competition, so this season is something I am really looking forward to.
Q: What is your favorite TV show?
Rath: My favorite show is "New Girl." I have probably watched it about seven times now. I always have it on while I am doing different things.
Q: Do you have any pregame rituals?
Rath: I am really big into visualization. I learned about it when I was 16, and I think it really helps me to focus and get in the mindset to go play a game. It really changed how I look at the game and how I prepare.
Q: Who is a volleyball player that you look up to?
Rath: I really look up to April Ross. She's had incredible work ethic and is an amazing player. I love watching her play. She has been a big inspiration for me.
Q: When did you start playing volleyball?
Rath: I started playing volleyball when I was 11. I did gymnastics for six years before that and decided I wanted to try out team sports and stuck with volleyball.
Q: What is your favorite food?
Rath: My favorite food is definitely tacos. I think I could eat them every day of my life.
Q: What's your major and what do you plan on doing with it?
Rath: I am a business analytics major with a minor in statistics. I don't really have a plan on what I want to do right now with it, but my dream would be to start a company with my friend, who is a coder, and create a new system that analyzes other businesses' data and help them to operate smoother.
Q: Do you have any hidden talents?
Rath: I can wiggle my ears.
Q: How would you describe coach Crouch in one word?
Rath: Detailed.
Q: What is your message to the Auburn family regarding the upcoming season?
Rath: I am grateful to be here! I have felt very welcome, and everyone has been so friendly. I am looking forward to this season and hope to see you all at our games. War Eagle!
