Caleb Fries 

Hometown: Altoona, PA 

High School: Altoona Area High School 

Major: Architectural Engineering 

Year: Sophomore 

Sport(s): Men's Volleyball 

What made you want to attend Penn State Altoona? 

Penn State is highly respected in the field I wish to go in. Combined with the proximity to home and the ability to play collegiate volleyball, it was pretty much a no-brainer. 

How did you get your start in your sport? 

I started playing volleyball in my freshman year of high school, after my Dad encouraged my twin and I to try out for the team. My Dad didn't get the opportunity to play volleyball at his high school, but he loved the game and thought it would be a good fit for us. One open gym later, and I was hooked. 

What are some of your favorite memories from your time as a Penn State Altoona student-athlete so far? 

Some of my favorite memories include bus trips and overnight stays for away matches. Our bond as a team is close, and spending time with your friends and kicking back after a long day of volleyball has always been very memorable. 

Do you have any mentors or role models at Penn State Altoona? If so, how have they helped you improve as a person? 

The main mentor I have had at Penn State Altoona has been Bob Kasun, my coach. His ability to analyze the sport at a microscopic level and seek constant improvement out of us has led me to become the best player I can be out there on the court. 

Outside of sports, what do you hope to accomplish during your time at Penn State Altoona? 

I hope to be able to get a good education and set myself up long term for the future. Playing sports is nice, but it is not forever. Being a student first and THEN an athlete has always been a priority of mine. 

What career role would you like to have in the future? How is Penn State Altoona helping you reach that goal? 

In my future career, I wish to be able to work for an architectural engineering firm based out of Pittsburgh. I love the city, and would very much like to make it my future home. As of right now, I am taking the fundamental classes that I need to ensure I have the necessary skills to accomplish that goal. Calculus, physics, and mechanics are all classes I need to take to further my education here. 

What advice would you give to a freshman student-athlete? 

Do not change who you are. Your skills got you here in the first place, and though the speed of the game may be quicker, you are still a collegiate athlete that has rightfully earned your place here. We were all new starting out, so embrace the process and you'll be better for it. 

Rapid Fire 

-Who is your favorite professional and collegiate sports team? I like all of the Pittsburgh sports teams, especially the Penguins. And yes, Pittsburgh sports teams include the University of Pittsburgh too (I'm sorry). 

-Who is your favorite professional athlete? TJ Defalco, an outside hitter for the USA Men's National Volleyball team. 

-Do you have any pregame rituals? I always say a prayer before a match. It helps me remain centered and remember that volleyball is just a game at the end of the day. 

-Altoona Pizza (Altoona Pizza is pizza with a thicker crust and is topped with tomato sauce, American cheese, green peppers, and salami): yay or nay? Definitely nay.

-What is your go-to order at Port Sky? Breakfast sandwich with turkey sausage and pepperjack cheese. 

-Outside of playing sports, what are your hobbies? I love going to the gym and spending time with friends and loved ones. 

-What would your teammates say you are famous for doing? Eating a lot of food, definitely. Any food that is leftover on away trips gets sent straight back to me.