Kelsey Lewis has known volleyball since a young age. She joined a group of friends at the YMCA in Topeka when she was in the second grade to learn how to play, even playing with a “one bounce” rule to ensure they got experience.

Since the second grade, Lewis has been playing volleyball and adding softball and basketball to her impressive resume throughout her childhood and into high school where she earned honors in all three sports at Washburn Rural High School.

Lewis attributes her success to her supportive family and friends. Lewis’ father coached her volleyball team growing up and taught her to never be satisfied. Her family always pushed her to be better and to learn from mistakes and move on.

“Kelsey is a great teammate,” said Sam McHenry. She cares about everyone and wants us to succeed. Having her believe and trust in us is how we are able to succeed.”

Last year Lewis had 229 kills, 12 blocks and 319 digs, making it her career high. Her position for the Ichabods is outside hitter/libero. Lewis also earned all-MIAA honorable mention her junior year.

The Bods have their first games of the season in the Ferris State Bulldog Invitational and Lewis is looking forward to seeing what is in store. She is eager to see how things fall into place and for everyone on the team to get comfortable.

“I’m excited to get started. I think these games will set the standards for the season and we can progress from there,” said Lewis.

Outside of volleyball, Lewis is studying to become a middle school English teacher and babysitting whenever possible. She grew up in Topeka wants to stay around the area after she graduates.