SALISBURY, Md. – This is "Nest to Nest," a new recurring series spotlighting the big miles and bigger stories of the Sea Gull student-athletes on each team who traveled the farthest to be at Salisbury University. This week, we meet SU volleyball's
Sierra Lenzen, who's used to living among the bright lights and beaches of Southern California.
Sierra Lenzen | Fr. Middle Blocker, Volleyball
Hometown:
Rancho Mission Viejo, California
Population:
10,378
Distance from Salisbury:
2,767 miles
Driving Time:
41 hours
What would you say your hometown is known for?
I think there's more than just one thing we're known for. It's pretty big and it's a beach town. There's definitely surfing, the surf culture is very big there. We've got great music and a lot of interesting people live there.
What's your favorite hometown hangout spot?
My favorite hometown hotspot would probably be Strands Beach [in Orange County]. It is my favorite beach that we go to, and I just love it. The sunsets are always really beautiful, and the waves are just always perfect to swim in. I grew up going to that beach the most, I would say.
Which local sports teams do you root for?
The Los Angeles Chargers. Big Chargers fan.
How did you hear about Salisbury University?
I was recruited from playing club [with Saddleback Volleyball Club]. I heard about SU through this really nice lady that was helping me with recruiting. Shout out to Allison!
What's the biggest difference between life in your hometown and life here in Salisbury?
I think it's very different not to see the ocean every single day. That's pretty much the biggest difference, I'd say. The people are great – they're different from back home, but they're still great in both places.
What's something you can turn to that reminds you of your hometown on the days when you miss it?
I have a playlist of songs I've grown up listening to from my dad, songs he played a lot, a lot of older rock 'n' roll. "Hotel California" by the Eagles was a big one, and then a lot of America and Neil Young; I love Neil Young. I come from like a big music family, and that helps me think of my home and my childhood, and it brings me joy.
How would you sell someone on visiting your hometown?
I think if you love the beach and you love good food, specifically good Mexican food, I would say to come on down to Southern California. It's great for that!
Salisbury University is a proud member of NCAA Division III with primary membership in the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference, along with affiliate membership in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (football, men's & women's swimming), Coastal Lacrosse Conference (men's lacrosse), State University of New York Athletic Conference (field hockey), and Colonial Women's Golf Conference (women's golf). With over 500 student-athletes in 23 varsity sports, SU is recognized as one of the nation's most competitive intercollegiate athletics programs regardless of division, featuring dedicated coaches and staff that foster excellence on and off the field. The Sea Gulls have won a combined 23 team national championships, 24 individual national championships, and 205 conference championships, and have produced 53 Academic All-Americans.
To Make Tomorrow Yours at Salisbury University, and learn more about Sea Gull Athletics' tradition of excellence, visit SUSeaGulls.com or follow on social media @SUSeaGulls.
