The Rider 
PHOTO COURTESY UTRGV ATHLETICS
Dimitra Nanou is a biology freshman from Kozani, Greece, and an outside hitter for the UTRGV Volleyball Team. In the 2025 season, she has had a total of 87 kills.
Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?
A: “I can’t go a day without listening to music.”
Q: Who or what got you started in volleyball?
A: “My family, because my mom and my dad are also my coaches, so it’s like a family thing.”
Q: Who has been your biggest inspiration or role model?
A: “My inspiration is my grandpa.”
Q: Who is your favorite volleyball player?
A: “My favorite volleyball player is Sarina Koga.”
Q: How do you mentally prepare for a game?
A: “I usually have fun with my teammates making TikToks, and also listening to trap and Greek or English music.”
Q: What kind of music do you listen to?
A: “I listen to all types of music. It depends on the day, my mood and everything.”
Q: Which shows or movies do you like to watch?
A: “I don’t have time to watch shows or movies.”
Q: Do you have any hobbies?
A: “I really like dancing and watching other sports.”
Q: What do you like most about UTRGV?
A: “I like the culture, and it feels like a family because everyone helps me. It feels like a home.”
Q: What are your biggest goals?
A: “My biggest goal is to become a professional volleyball player, and to help my family [and] my sister. I think one of my biggest goals also is to have a family.”
—Compiled by Mariajose Garza
About The Author
