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Molly Welgat
My Volleyball Journey: From High School to Coaching Back in 2019, I wrapped up my high school years at Kewanee High School, fully immersed in the world of sports. I didn't just stick to one; I was all in for three different sports throughout my four years. But if you ask me, volleyball stole my heart. That passion didn't just stop there; I took my game to the next level by playing D3 collegiate volleyball at Illinois College. Making a Difference On and Off the Court College wasn't just about playing; it was about giving back too. I got involved in running camps, coaching younger players, and even brought the volleyball camp spirit back to Kewanee one summer. After college, I landed an assistant coaching gig at Northland College in Wisconsin. There, I dove deep into the world of recruiting, a crucial part of building a strong team. This experience opened my eyes. Despite searching far and wide, local talent from areas like mine seemed overlooked. It made me think back to my own path to college volleyball – a path filled with determination and a bit of luck, minus the club volleyball experience or knowledge of recruiting sites. Learning and Growing with the Game Last December, I hit a milestone by attending the American Volleyball Coaches Association’s annual convention in Tampa, Florida. Watching the D1 national semifinals and championship games was not just thrilling; it was enlightening. The sport is skyrocketing, filled with opportunities for young athletes eager to dive into volleyball. This experience reignited my desire to bring everything I've learned and loved about volleyball back to my hometown. I want to help local girls improve their skills, embrace sportsmanship, and foster a love for the game, just like I did. From playing at every level to coaching and scouting talent, I'm ready to share my insights and experiences. Our Volleyball Community: Growing Together We're setting up our practice sessions at Visitation Catholic School, aiming to compete in tournaments across Peoria, the Quad Cities, and beyond. My dream? To build a team that not only competes locally but also makes a mark in the nationals tournament in Indy. Join us on this journey. Whether you're a player, a parent, or just someone who loves volleyball, there's a place for you here. Let's grow together, learn together, and maybe, just maybe, make it to the nationals together.
Courtney Brunson
Discovering My Volleyball Passion: From Kewanee High to Coaching Excellence Graduating from Kewanee High School in 2018, my journey was marked by a deep dedication to volleyball, a sport that shaped my entire high school experience. Transitioning from a high school athlete to an influential figure in volleyball, I pursued higher education at Eastern Illinois University. There, I stepped into pivotal roles that honed my skills further: becoming the student manager for the Division 1 (D1) volleyball team and leading as president of the club volleyball team. Fostering Young Talent: The Path to Coaching and Community Engagement Eastern Illinois University was a turning point, where I immersed myself in volleyball management, coordinating practice setups, executing drills, and capturing crucial game statistics. My focus was particularly on setters and liberos, leveraging my high school experience as a libero to guide these players effectively. This deep dive into the coaching realm at a D1 level enriched my understanding of the game, preparing me for a significant role back in Kewanee. Acknowledging the need for passionate and knowledgeable volleyball mentors in Kewanee, I took the initiative to coach the junior high volleyball team at Visitation Catholic School. This role not only marked my first venture into head coaching but also symbolized my commitment to nurturing the next generation of volleyball players. Year One as Head Coach: Lessons Learned and the Impact on Kewanee’s Volleyball Scene My debut year in coaching was transformative, filled with invaluable lessons about leadership, teamwork, and the profound impact a coach can have on young athletes' development. This experience underscored the importance of building a solid foundation for volleyball in our community, aiming to foster an environment where young girls can excel in sportsmanship, leadership, and athletic prowess. Vision for Kewanee’s Volleyball Future: Building a Legacy Together Looking ahead, my ambition extends beyond the immediate horizon. I am dedicated to expanding our youth volleyball program, making volleyball accessible and engaging for more young athletes in and around Kewanee. By cultivating a supportive and dynamic volleyball community, we aim to not just participate but excel in regional and national tournaments, showcasing the talent and hard work of our young players. Join Our Growing Volleyball Family in Kewanee Our journey is an open invitation to anyone passionate about volleyball—players, parents, and fans alike. Together, we can shape a promising future for volleyball in Kewanee, creating opportunities for growth, learning, and achievement. Join us as we aim to elevate our game, inspire our youth, and leave a lasting impact on the volleyball community.