Name: Hailey Youngren

Year: Sophomore

Major: English

Sport: Volleyball

What inspired you to start volleyball?

My mom was a huge influence on my sister and I wanting to play volleyball. I also played under a woman named Pat Meinert who was my mom’s coach and my club director who we unfortunately lost to breast cancer a few years ago. She had such a strong love for the game that it made it hard not to want to love it, too, and I love that I can honor her memory by continuing to play in college.

How long have you been playing volleyball?

I’ve been playing volleyball since I was in sixth grade, so nine years.

What is your favorite part about being a college athlete?

My favorite part of being a college athlete is the people that I have met. My teammates are my second family, and I’m so lucky to know them. I also have met many other athletes through being on the volleyball team and they have become some of my closest friends. Just being able to do what I love with people I love is a great experience.

What advice would you give your younger self about volleyball?

If I could give my younger self advice about my sport it would be to just keep going and to take care of your body. Being an athlete comes with many challenges, mentally and physically, so it’s important to remember that it’ll only make you stronger. Knowing that would’ve saved me a lot of time growing up. 

What do you hope to take away from volleyball?

I hope to take away from volleyball great friendships, leadership and communication skills, along with many memories that I can look back on.