Junior Jonny Bowles has settled in as a regular contributor for the men's volleyball team as he winds down his third season at UC Irvine. The 6-foot-7 opposite has played 29 sets for the Anteaters this season, establishing career-highs with 40 kills and 31 digs while adding two aces.

As the squad prepares to close out the regular season against Hawaii next weekend, the Chandler, Ariz., native took the time to talk with us about the community dynamic that the team has adopted and to discuss his career aspirations off the court.


Q: How did you get started playing volleyball?
A: I played for my school team in Junior High and loved the game with no skill. My dad signed me up for a camp at the high school before my freshman year, not realizing until I got there that it was an all-girls camp. Later that week, the coach told my parents to get me into club volleyball.

Q: What is something you have learned from Coach David Kniffin that has stuck with you?
A: I learn from Kniff constantly and try to absorb it all. I think his appreciation for the little things in life is something I admire that I have adopted and practiced since I got to UCI. He is one of the most influential people to have entered my life.

Q: After the abrupt ending to last season, can you talk about the emotions you and your teammates were feeling as you prepared to get back on the court for the 2021 season opener against Hawaii?
A: Our team could not wait to compete again. COVID has given us an appreciation for a lot that we might have taken for granted before. The opportunity to compete with UCI on our chests is special.

Q: If you can describe your team in one word, what would it be and why?
A: Community. Since COVID, we have not had much contact with anyone outside our team. We play, work and relax together. It's a dynamic that I'd never had before joining the program.

Q: What goes through your mind when you see the ball getting set to you?
A: I feel like a dog when the food is getting filled up in the bowl. I get genuinely excited to go up and hit it.

Q: What is your favorite shot or set to hit?
A: I like to hit a high ball. I love to see the set, reach high, and take a rip.

Q: If you could play another position, what would it be and why?
A: If I could, I would love to be a setter. Everything runs through the setter and they touch the ball on almost every play.

Q: Do you have a serving ritual?
A: Before I serve, I bounce the ball 5 times, take a deep breath and extend my arm before tossing it.

Q: Who is your favorite volleyball player to watch and why?
A: I love watching Anders Mol on the beach. He and his partner have found sustained winning with a consistent, disruptive defense. I can't wait to watch a lot of Olympic volleyball this summer.

Q: What are your hobbies when you are not on the volleyball court?
A: I enjoy hanging out with the boys, watching sports and playing guitar.

Q: You have traveled to numerous countries. What country do you want to visit next and why?
A: I want to visit Switzerland. They have one of the coolest beach volleyball tournaments in the world and the scenery is incredible.

Q: Where did the aspiration to become a physical therapist originate from?
A: I have a passion for movement and understanding the body. After needing physical therapy in high school, I realized it was something I would love to do. I have been fortunate to work for one of the best physical therapists since I got here.