Athlete Q&A: Elli Willoughby

110520.S.PJ.AthleteQ&AASF_ElliWilloughby.jpg — Cloquet libero Elli Willoughby leads the team with 12.1 digs per game so far this season. Jamey Malcomb / Pine Journal

By Pine Journal and Jamey Malcomb

November 05, 2020 at 6:00 AM

NAME: Elli Willoughby

AGE: 18

HEIGHT: 5 feet, 2 inches

YEAR: Senior

TEAM: Cloquet volleyball

POSITION: Libero

This season's stats: Willoughby leads the Lumberjacks with 12.1 digs and has 8.6 serve-receives per game this season.

What college or professional athlete inspires you and why?

Kerri Walsh Jennings. Her grit inspires me, and you can see her good sportsmanship on and off the court.

What is one of your most memorable moments as an athlete?

We were playing at a Proctor tournament and I only play back row, but I had to play middle front and I actually got a kill at the buzzer as the game was ending. It was exciting. I'm just 5'2, and I was in the middle and actually got a kill.

What are your plans after graduation?

I want to attend the University of Minnesota Duluth and study pharmacy. The different medications interest me, and I want to go into the medical field, but I can't deal with the guts.

What is your favorite activity or hobby outside of sports and why?

Probably just hanging out with friends and family. They're fun and really make me happy.

Describe your dream vacation.

Anywhere hot with a beach. Winters are too long here.