Leah Edmond finishes second year with SEC Network

Edmond wrapped up her second year as a color analyst for SEC Network covering Kentucky Volleyball. Fans who tuned in to Wildcat games on the network heard the perspective of the program alum.

The outside hitter shared how the experience has impacted how she sees the game.

Q: How has being a color commentator challenged you over the past two years?

A: I think it’s challenged me to understand volleyball from an outside perspective. When doing the calls it’s quick for me to say things that I know what they mean and anybody else who plays volleyball knows what it means – but someone who might be watching this game for the first time might have no clue what I’m talking about. So it’s gotten me to understand the game in a way that I haven’t seen before and be able to explain what’s going on as well.

Q: Does being on the broadcast side cause you to see the game from a new perspective… if yes, how so?

A: I think it’s helped with my knowledge of the game a little bit more. Now I’m explaining why someone may have made a hitting choice or a setting choice or why a certain serve does so much damage. I think it helped me understand little intricate parts of the game a little bit more and have more of an overview and understanding of what’s happening and I think it’s helped because I’m playing as well.

Q: How special has it been staying involved and connected to Kentucky through the opportunity? 

A: It’s been so special to be able to do especially the UK games. I think it’s cool to have someone who played at that university calling the games. I think it makes it a little bit more familiar like I’m sitting there telling you about volleyball yourself because a lot of the people watching the game know who I am really well. It’s been cool to help push volleyball in my own community because I’m the one doing the games and to do SEC games or coaches that used to coach against me has been super fun and interesting as well.

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Kentucky Volleyball made it to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament this season where they were knocked out by SEC rival Arkansas in five sets on Dec. 7. It ended their season and the Wildcats 18-match win streak.

Savanna Collins is the Digital Media Reporter at Athletes Unlimited. You can follow her on Twitter @savannaecollins.