Troll Volleyball Conference Champions: Photogallery

 

View Photogallery“I love all sixteen of my teammates like I would my own sisters.”

Kaitlin Feddema ’14 of Kalamazoo, Michigan, an outside-hitter in her fourth year on the volleyball team, regards the relationships she has built with teammates as a highlight in a very successful 2013 season.

The team won the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) in a match against Cardinal Stritch University, the only team they had lost to in conference in their 17-1 season. As conference tournament champions, the Trolls received a spot in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes (NAIA) National Championship Opening Round. Their game will take place on November 23 in Nebraska against No. 17 Bellevue University.

To follow the game on November 23, check out the Live Game Video.

Kirsten Harms ’14 of Tinley Park, Illinois, a middle-hitter in her fourth year on the team, believes that beneath the intense practices and training, the base for this winning season lies in team fellowship.

“Something unique about our team is that we all play for God first and then for each other,” said Harms.  “We have such selfless players on our team, which contributes to our ability to work together and support each other.”

 

We all play for God first and
then for each other.
–Kirsten Harms

 

In a game where tension between players can grow out of competition for starting spots, both seniors were grateful for the supportive atmosphere that they felt makes their team unique.

“Before practice we ask each other about our days. During practice we coach each other through the tough drills. After practice, we acknowledge the things each individual does well,” Feddema said. “I know that the friendships I’ve developed with the girls on this team will stick with me long after I’m done with volleyball.”

As the team heads into tournament play, Coach Bill Schepel ’85 commented on team chemistry.

“In my seven seasons at Trinity, I’ve been blessed to always have wonderful young ladies on my team who get along well,” said Schepel. “I think that it is an integral part of our success.”

Schepel believes that the most consistent team is the one that ends up on top.

“Volleyball is a game of momentum, with a lot of ups and downs. My team is very talented and has the ability to play to at a high level,” he said. “The key for us as we enter the national tournament is to be consistent.”

Feddema and Harms hope team chemistry will support their endeavors to play consistently in the NAIA tournament.

“Our ability to trust each other and build each other up definitely has a huge impact on the way we play,” Feddema said. “The team chemistry is unlike anything I’ve experienced on a team before. We are confident in our team and we aren’t ready to be done.”

Visit the athletics page to meet the rest of the team.