For a student-athlete, one of the best things about being on a team is creating a second family, especially for those who live thousands of miles from home.

Junior middle blocker and California native Brittani Muller, a member of the Pace volleyball team, knows this all too well. Muller grew up in the small city of Esparto, 40 minutes away from the state’s capital of Sacramento, and identifies her family as a huge part of who she is.

“I come from a really close-knit family, and my parents have always been there supporting me through everything,” Muller said.

Among her strongest influences, Muller lists her grandfather and the life motto that he instilled in her.

“Ever since I became a serious athlete, I’ve believed ‘nothing is impossible,’” Muller said. “My grandfather was one of my idols, and that quote sums up pretty much everything he ever said to me. I continue to live and play by it, for him.”

As a junior, Muller has become accustomed to being away from home and developed methods of dealing with her busy schedule.

“Between volleyball and classes and being so far from home, I think it’s important to get away for a little bit,” Muller said. “Whether it’s waking up extra early and just having coffee and listening to music, or going on a run when it’s nice outside, I love having time to myself.”

Besides volleyball, Muller also stays active on campus as a member of Colleges Against Cancer, a cause quite important to her.

“I’ve been involved with Colleges Against Cancer throughout my years here at Pace,” Muller said. “My mom had lung cancer when I was in third grade, and ever since I have been into Relay For Life, which is College Against Cancer’s biggest event.”

Muller is a regular on Pace’s team having made appearances in all 19 games this season. She has 1.17 kills per set and has a hitting percentage of .167.

During her high school days, the four-year honor roll student won Most Improved her first two years, while also earning the Coach’s Award her junior year.  In her senior year, she was named team captain and also won the MVP award.

Muller’s love for volleyball dates back to the sixth grade when she began playing with her best friend.

“I started playing with my friend Mikkayla because we decided it would be a fun after school sport to do,” Muller said. “We played together throughout the rest of middle school and high school.”

Muller identifies volleyball as her “thing” and considers it an escape from stresses of the world. Through volleyball, she has established strong bonds with the other players.

“Becoming family with your teammates is something truly special,” Muller said.