As the libero, a defensive specialist, junior Rachel Pittman’s contributions to the LSU volleyball team often go unnoticed. The libero strictly makes stops. She cannot serve and she does not try to hit the ball over the net. Pittman’s job is to keep the ball from hitting the ground.
“Your stats are your digs,” Pittman said. “That’s what your job’s for.”
The libero position is a recent addition to the sport. LSU coach Fran Flory said the position was added to extend play and make volleyball more of a rally sport.
“It is a defensive position that can enter the game at anytime and it doesn’t count as a substitution,” Flory said.
Flory said Pittman’s personality fits the libero position, which is all about ball control. Setter Beth Cowley agrees.
“Rachel is very intense and determined,” Cowley said. “She pushes everyone on the team especially when it comes to defense. She’s got the best ball control on the team.”
Flory said the one negative to Pittman playing at the libero position is she does not utilize her serving ability. Pittman said she wishes she could serve, but she enjoys her defensive role.
“I love to roll on the floor and dig volleyballs,” Pittman said. “I like to fight and play hard.”
Against the University of New Orleans in the Sugar Bowl Classic, Pittman tied freshman Daniela Romero for the most digs on the team with 12.
Despite her success at libero, however, Pittman may soon be called upon to set. The Tigers have two setters, both of whom are fighting injuries.
Cowley still is rehabilitating a wrist injury and Romero currently is out of action due to a lower leg injury.
Cowley played last weekend in the Wildcat Classic even though she had pain in her wrist and index finger.
Flory said Pittman is practicing at the position, despite never playing it before, in case Cowley is unable to play.
“I knew coming into the season that Beth’s injured,” Pittman said. “Then it turned out Daniela was injured and I knew there wasn’t anyone else who could set.”
Pittman said it is difficult to learn a new position at the collegiate level, especially an offensive position like setter.
“It’s bizarre,” Pittman said. “I’m so defensive-minded I’d worry about the first ball and I’d forget to set the second ball. The first day I was completely overwhelmed but I got more comfortable.”
Flory said Pittman has had an injury for some time but continues to play tough.
“She’s playing with a torn ligament,” Flory said. “She has functioned without it for a long time but it is something she’ll eventually have to get fixed.”
Flory said playing with a torn ligament is an example of Pittman’s toughness.
“Rachel’s a strong person in every way,” Flory said.