USA VOLLEYBALL CNT-JAPAN INFORMATION
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Illinois volleyball senior Jacqueline Quade and sophomore Mica Allison gained valuable experience both on and off the court as a part of the 12-player U.S. Women's Collegiate National Team – Japan Tour (CNT-Japan) roster, which took a 12-day, seven-match trip to Japan from May 19-30.
"Playing for the collegiate National team in Japan was an amazing experience," said Quade. "Getting to learn about the culture and volleyball in a different country was something I will never forget!"
"I am so thankful and feel extremely blessed that I got to experience this with some amazing people and players," added Allison. "We had the opportunity to play in a different culture and learn a different style of play."
Along with their seven matches, Quade, Allison and the CNT-Japan team, were able to explore numerous sights in the cities of Tokyo, Kawasaki and Okayama.
Q & A with Jacqueline Quade & Mica Allison
What were your favorite moments on the court?
Quade: My favorite moment on the court was just getting to play with an awesome group of girls, and working hard with them for a common goal.
Allison: All of us bonded pretty fast so it was rewarding to then also connect on the court. We played like we had known each other for a while.
What were your favorite moments off the court?
Quade: My favorite moments off the court were getting to explore a new place with new friends.
Allison: I enjoyed the sightseeing of all the temples and also really enjoyed Shibuya Crossing. The Crossing had a lot of food and shops around, it had a true big city feeling.
Any interesting stories or surprises?
Quade: We ate pork tongue which was pretty cool.
Allison: I expected that we would eat fish often but we barely did. I thought the food was pretty good and enjoyed trying new things. I brought back some candies that I really liked for my family to try. The texture of food is so different and interesting.
Lessons learned on the trip, representing USA, etc…
Quade: You have to work fast to try to mesh with a new group of players, which is very fun, but very challenging. You also have to be able to adapt to the culture that you are in to make the most of your experience!
Allison: Representing USA is so special because I love this country! Getting to wear USA with so many other great people and to represent this country while playing volleyball is something I am extremely grateful for.
How did this experience help you improve your game?
Quade: It taught me how to problem solve and learn to play with new people.
Allison: I think playing with people you are not used to playing with ultimately helps the way you adapt to certain situations. The Japanese are very good and there was a lot to take away from their style of play and relentless defense.
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