Courtesy of Norfolk State Athletic Communications
NORFOLK, Va. – The abrupt end to the remainder of the 2020 NCAA spring sports season around the country has hit especially hard for senior student-athletes, many of whom had plans of celebrating senior days, competing one last time for conference championships, and graduating.
Over the coming weeks and months, NSU Athletics is highlighting a number of these student-athletes who have been integral members of their sports programs, on and off the fields of competition.
Daiysa Burrell is in her fourth year at NSU and has competed for both the volleyball and track and field programs. On the volleyball court, she played in 60 matches in her career, tallying 124 kills, 48 digs and 20 total blocks.
During track season, Burrell has participated in the throwing events – the shot put, weight throw, discus and javelin. The Upper Marlboro, Md. native was the MEAC runner-up in the discus throw last spring.
Read more on Burrell and her journey below:
Q: What made you choose Norfolk State as your college destination?
A: Norfolk State had the major I wanted. Then, once I knew I was able to compete in two sports, that made the decision easier. Also, the scenery was different and it wasn't too close or too far from home.
Q: What has been your favorite memory as a Spartan so far?
A: I have a lot of favorites, but as of right now I would say when the women's track team came in second at the MEAC Indoor Championship (in February). It just shows the potential of the team.
Q: What made you decide to be a two-sport athlete at the college level?
A: I had love for volleyball and since I hadn't been doing track for long, it made me want to get better at it.
Q: What has been the hardest part about doing both?
A: There hasn't really been anything hard between the two. It has kept me disciplined and focused on the reason I am here besides getting an education.
Q: Have you noticed any benefits where doing one sport has helped you in the other?
A: They both have just helped me overall. Both have helped me in areas I need to improve on physically as well as mentally.
Q: What do you love most about the two sports?
A: I love the traveling, but also the different atmospheres.
Q: You've been very involved in extra-curricular activities and clubs at NSU. What have they meant to you?
A: I love the Sister Circle. It allows me to meet others outside of athletics and to be involved on campus. The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) gave me the opportunity to help students be engaged with their education and have access to the many resources we have. When I was involved in the Student Activities Board, it helped me stay connected with the student body. I was always trying to figure out ways to get people active and involved.
Q: What is your major and what would you like to do with it after graduation?
A: I'm an exercise science major with a concentration in health and wellness rehabilitation. After graduation, I plan on going to grad school.
Q: What is the hardest part about not being able to finish this season of track & field?
A: The hardest part about not finishing the track season was knowing that the outdoor season was going to be phenomenal. All the momentum from indoor season was going to continue into the outdoor season.
Q: The NCAA is offering eligibility relief for senior spring sports athletes to receive another year in their chosen sport. What would that opportunity mean to you?
A: I would definitely be interested. I could use the time to reflect on how much better I could have been but make it into reality from all the preparation and drive to be better. It's like a second chance.