Tia Allen palms the volleyball before serving during a final week of spring practice. Photo by Justin Cox.
Nearing the end of her Sophomore year, Tia Allen solidified her plans to transfer from Saint Martin’s University in Lacey, Washington. She ultimately decided to come play volleyball for UAA. Allen decided on transferring schools since she’s not just an athlete, but also an artist. Allen landed on UAA because she wanted something completely new to her, as well as to remain on the West coast so she would still be near enough for her family to attend some of her games.
When asked about her art, Allen said, “I’ve always adored art in all its forms, and ceramics has always been my favorite medium.” She enjoys being able to express herself through creating 3D objects and feels a greater connection to them than to 2D works. When asked about balancing her life as a studio artist and student athlete she said that it can be a challenge since most people do not realize the amount of time that is required to complete studio art courses. But overall Allen feels “it’s definitely worth it.”
Allen ranked 4th in the Greater Northwest Athletic Conference, also known as GNAC, at the end of the 2022 season with a 3.23 kills per set average and earned an honorable mention in All-GNAC honors. Because of GNAC rules, Allen was not allowed to compete in any matches for a year after transferring and was unable to participate in the 2023 season, but she will join the Seawolves wearing jersey #2 as an outside hitter this fall for the 2024 season.
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