Sports Spotlight - Windermere Observer: Laura Misko

When Laura Misko was younger, she took up beach volleyball to keep busy during the offseason for indoor club volleyball. Soon, though, the two sports flipped in priority, and Misko dedicated herself to the beach game. Misko, who still plays indoor at the varsity level for Dr. Phillips High, committed to play for the beach program at Stetson University in DeLand last week.

What was it about Stetson that led you to commit there?

It’s really close to home, and my family lives in Orlando, so it’s really convenient. It has all the majors I’m interested in, and it is one of the best schools in the country for beach volleyball.

Beach volleyball is a relatively new and growing varsity sport at the collegiate level. Does that make you more excited to have committed?

I’m super excited to be part of the development of the sport in the NCAA.

What do you enjoy so much about beach volleyball?

I love being outdoors and being able to do everything, not just one position. I enjoy having a teammate on the court and being able to communicate well.

Does playing beach make you a better player for traditional volleyball?

It does, because it makes you use all the skills in beach.

What do you think is the outlook for Dr. Phillips this fall?

I think we have a lot of potential — I’m super excited for this season. We definitely have a ton of good players and I think we’re building a really strong program.

What’s the best volleyball advice you have received?

I think to just always stay calm in every situation. There’s going to be a lot of games where you’re down, but you can come back. I feel like most people play better when they’re calm, because they’re more confident. 

Which majors at Stetson are you interested in studying?

I’m looking into business, and they also have a sports marketing major that I’m interested in.

What do you think you would like to do for a career?

Probably to be a physical therapist of some sort.

How did you spend your summer?

I travel a lot for tournaments, so that consumes most of my time. Other than that, I just hang out with friends and family and I work on school — I took some online classes.

What’s your favorite movie?

“Chasing Mavericks” — I love how it’s an inspirational movie, yet it relates to real life.

What’s your dream car?

Probably a silver Jeep Wrangler.