By Trevor Wenners

LaGrange College

Kylie Neal is in an elite category.

The rising sophomore at LaGrange College has already earned a permanent and special place in the beach-volleyball record book.

Neal, along with rising sophomore Jharia Harris, earned the program's first-ever win, emerging victorious, 17-21, 21-17, 18-16, during the second flight against Huntingdon on March 7 at the Strack Beach Volleyball Courts.

The Guyton native also got her feet wet during the 2019 indoor-volleyball season. Neal competed in seven matches and 15 sets, finishing with five digs, four kills, three service aces and three assists.

The business major was involved in some tremendous milestones during the 2019-20 athletic year. The indoor-volleyball team went 8-6 in the USA South for the second-straight season under head coach Madison Machurek. Additionally, the Panthers hosted their first beach-volleyball match on March 6, unveiling a newly designed, tri-court venue.

The impressive young woman was kind enough to take some time out of her summer schedule and engage in a Q&A segment.

Q: What makes LaGrange College unique?

A: LaGrange is unique because it is much smaller than a normal college, so it helps students establish a better connection with classmates and professors.

Q: What have you learned from the COVID-19 pandemic?

A: The pandemic has made me more aware of my surroundings and it has taught me how to adjust to adversity.

Q: Who is your most underrated teammate?

A: My most underrated teammate is Jharia Harris. She is hardworking and puts the team's success before her own.

Q: What is the best spot on campus?

A: The best place on campus is the volleyball court. It is my home away from home.

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: My favorite movie is "The Princess Diaries."

Q: Who is your favorite actor?

A: My favorite actor is Matthew McConaughey.

Q: Who is your favorite athlete?

A: Dansby Swanson is my favorite athlete.

Q: Is a great kill or dig more rewarding?

A: Getting a kill is more rewarding because we get a rush of satisfaction and the celebration after is always unforgettable.

Q: What is the best food in the world?

A: I love french fries.

Q: Who is your hero?

A: My dad will always be my hero and my favorite person because he continues to support me throughout anything. Nothing is impossible with him around.