Hey guys!

For today's diary, I'd like to respond to questions I received from a high school volleyball team in California.

Who is the funniest person on the USA women's indoor volleyball team?

Everyone is pretty funny in their own way; we have a pretty random team. But if I had to pick one, I'd probably give the nod to Tayyiba Haneef-Park. She's hilarious, and appreciates awkward situations as much as I do.

What are your pregame rituals?

I don't really have any anymore. International volleyball is a lot different from college and high-school volleyball in the sense that we have very little control over scheduling, transportation, team meals, etc. So having the same pregame routine can be almost more of a distraction because it's nearly impossible to keep consistent. The only thing I always do before matches is drink green tea. I like all kinds of green tea, but on the road I bring the kind from Starbucks so I can represent Seattle, and get a little taste of home too.

What music do you listen to before matches?

I like to listen to chill music before games, because it helps me stay relaxed and conserve energy for the match. I've been listening to a lot of country lately. Disney songs have always been a favorite. Brandi Carlile's new album, and the new one by Of Monsters and Men have been playing a lot.

Of all the countries you've traveled to, what are your favorites?

Tough question. Brazil is one of my favorite countries to play in, because they love their volleyball down there and I always like playing against the Brazilian team. Most of my traveling has been for volleyball, but if I had to pick one to go back to for vacation, I'd probably choose Switzerland or Belize. If I had a week to go anywhere in the world, I'd choose Seattle!

Hope all is well back home! Thanks again for all your support-

- Courtney Thompson