Athlete of the Week - West Orange Times & Observer: Torey Baum

West Orange volleyball sophomore Torey Baum, a libero and defensive specialist, made history of sorts last week when she committed to play her college volleyball at the University of Southern California. Athletic Director Adam Miller believes the commitment to USC is a first for any Warrior athlete.

What was it that sold you on USC?

The coaches are amazing, and it’s a family-oriented program. The girls are always outgoing and play at a high level — they’re always competing for a national championship every year.

How about the campus location in Los Angeles? Are you excited about that?

The campus is beautiful — 20 minutes away from everything. With L.A. traffic, probably 45 (minutes). 

After the success the program had in 2015, are you especially excited for this coming season?

I’m very excited. Making history last year was amazing, and we’re looking forward to doing it this year — going to states and pushing through.

Have you always played libero? What do you enjoy about the position?

I was a hitter when I was younger, but now I’m a libero. It’s really fun and I like it because if you make a mistake, you always get another chance. You just kind of shake it off and go to the next one.

Your brother, Tyler, had plenty of success on the baseball team and is now a freshman for North Carolina. Have you two had a friendly competition during your athletic careers?

It’s a friendly competition. Learning from him through the recruiting process has been a lot of fun and he’s helped me a lot. He’s just someone I really look up to.

What is a class you are looking forward to this school year?

I’m really looking forward to (Advanced Placement) Psychology because it’s something that I’m interested in and that will help me with my career.

If you could be any animal, what animal would you be?

Probably dog, just so you would still have the family atmosphere and really get loved on.

What’s your favorite show?

“Grey’s Anatomy.” I want to be a physical therapist, so learning about nursing and all of that will help me.

Do you have any non-volleyball hobbies?

I really enjoy surfing, paddle boarding, going out on the lake — just anything outdoors.