Olympic dream set to become reality for Miami Hurricanes volleyball player Ariana Rodriguez: "It doesn't feel real"
On July 26 the 2024 Olympics are set to kick off in Paris, and there will be a handful of Miami Hurricanes athletes representing their respective countries.
Among the seven current or former Hurricanes set to compete is current sophomore volleyball player Ariana Rodriguez. She will be suiting up for the Dominican Republic.
“It feels just surreal and bittersweet to be at my first Olympics,” Rodriguez told CaneSport. “I think it’s an honor to be one of the few athletes at Miami that is going to Paris. It doesn’t feel real, and I’m really grateful that I’m not the only one from Miami. I think that’s so cool and something special.”
Two weeks ahead of the Olympics, Rodriguez and her Dominican Republic teammates made their way to Paris in preparation for the big stage, which she believed has helped the team tremendously.
“Right now we’re scrimmaging other countries, so we’re getting out a lot of the jitters,” Rodriguez said.
Along with the pre-Olympic training, Rodriguez credited Miami volleyball head coach Jose “Keno” Gandara for getting her both mentally and physically prepared for this moment.
Whether it be extra workouts before and after practice, to simple conversations, and answering any question she had, Rodriguez could not thank the longtime Miami coach enough for what he has done.
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“I think I owe it to Keno,” Rodriguez said. “He always pulled me aside for extra reps, even before or after practices. Really focusing on the little things when I’m setting, serving, and defending. Just all aspects of my game allow me to perfect them in time for the Olympics.”
During Rodriguez’s time in Paris, she will be joined by her entire family, which will make the experience much more special with her being able to share it with her loved ones.
“They’re pretty exciting, and they’re actually coming here,” Rodriguez said. “It’ll be my dad, brother, mom, and sister, so everyone will be here. They’ll be seeing me play every day.”
With the Olympics less than two weeks away, Rodriguez’s mindset is simple. Work hard and enjoy the moments while you can, day in and day out.
“Determination, focus, and discipline in the game and outside of it,” Rodriguez said. “Also, I’m just enjoying my time because the Olympics happen every four years and not everyone has the privilege to attend them. I’m just trying to remain focused, be positive, and look forward to a new day every single day.”
A look at all seven Miami athletes who will be at the 2024 Paris Olympics
- Mohamed Farouk, Egypt, Men’s Diving
- Alysha Newman, Canada, Women’s Track & Field
- Jake Passmore, Ireland, Men’s Diving
- Chiara Pellacani, Italy, Women’s Diving
- Davon Reed, Puerto Rico, Men’s Basketball
- Russell Robinson, USA, Men’s Track & Field
- Ariana Rodriguez, Dominican Republic, Women’s Volleyball
