Crimes Arrests LBSU Competition
by Kim Oswell, Daily 49er
October 5, 2005 The strength of the women's volleyball team relies on heavy hitters and players who perform with a competitive edge. Long Beach State's 11-4 overall record can be traced down to one such player, the hard-working Alexis Crimes.
The sophomore middle blocker is the model of talent and determination that helps LBSU strive for greatness.
Crimes was born in Honolulu and raised in the Antelope Valley. She graduated from Etiwanda High School and then came to LBSU. She spent last summer playing for the USA Women's Junior National Team that played in Turkey, where she was named "Best Attacker."
Considering this is only her fourth year playing volleyball, she has far exceeded the realm of just being good. Her obvious natural talent is evident in her achievements and awards.
She was named Big West Freshman of the Year, AVCA West Region Freshman of the Year, AVCA All-West Region, First-Team All-Big West and Third-Team AVCA All-American.
Crimes admits she stumbled upon volleyball by accident when she and her friend decided to play in high school.
" I like the intensity of the game. It's a challenge and everyday the sport is growing," said Crimes. "I know it will get more popular and it can be something great."
When she isn't averaging 3.88 kills or 1.25 blocks per game, Crimes enjoys reading, watching her favorite television show, "Girlfriends," and hanging out with her friends in the dorms.
Her favorite movie is "Love and Basketball" and she said if she wasn't playing volleyball, she would be playing basketball.
She proudly wears No. 34 on her jersey in honor of her favorite athlete, Shaquille O'Neal.
Crimes has a passion for track and field because she used to run track before she became involved in volleyball. Her competitive nature drives her toward excellence and becoming the best player she can be.
" We have a very good team. We just lost to UCSB, but I know we can finish this season with a win, hopefully extending into championships," said Crimes. |
