Christa Harmotto Dietzen’s family has been on hand for every minute of action during the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, offering as much support as they did when she was a little girl growing up in Hopewell.
“It was her dream and all we did was follow her along and we did anything we could to support her,” said Robert Harmotto, Dietzen’s father.
Dietzen is a middle hitter on Team USA’s women’s indoor volleyball team. Channel 11 talked to her parents just before the team’s match with Serbia Wednesday. They’re playing in Maracanazhino Arena, known as the spiritual home of volleyball in Brazil.
“They love their volleyball here and so the atmosphere has been so exciting,” said Connie Harmotto, Dietzen's mother.
Dietzen is one of just four players returning from the London Olympics, where they took silver.
“When you think of the numbers out there and 12 made it, that’s pretty special,” said Robert. “It just sends chills up my spine thinking about it.”
, Dietzen has been highlighting those who have played a role in her Olympic journey. From grade school in Beaver County, to high school, club volleyball, her family and the little girls she hopes to inspire.
Dietzen has a reputation for putting her team before herself, likely one reason why she’s the team captain.
“It’s amazing just to see where she’s come from being a little girl having these dreams,” said Connie Harmotto. “The biggest thing is the woman she’s become. That’s what we’re most proud of. All these accomplishments, they’re great, but we know who she is and what she is and that really makes a difference.”
[ Dietzen’s mom has been blogging about their Olympic journey. ]
Team USA volleyball defeated Serbia and moved to the quarterfinals.