The first year of college is a transformative experience that many students eagerly anticipate. For first-year Wake Forest volleyball player Cy Rae Campbell, this year marks a significant journey not only in athletics but also in personal growth as she acclimates to her new environment in Winston-Salem during the 2024-25 academic year.
As she reaches the midway point of her inaugural season, Cy is balancing her volleyball commitments with her academic responsibilities. With exams approaching and the season’s final stretch in sight, she is also reflecting on November as National Native American Heritage Month, which holds great significance for her. “This month means a lot to me,” she shared. “It’s about celebrating our past, present and future, and it spotlights what we can advocate for as a community.”
Hailing from Olathe, Kansas, Cy grew up deeply connected to her roots in the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska. Her childhood was enriched by sports and community, which helped shape her dedicated spirit. “Native Americans have always contributed to American culture,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of giving back and fostering a family-oriented atmosphere.
Cy’s journey in volleyball began at Heritage Christian Academy, where she honed her skills and stood out as a top talent, reaching an impressive national ranking. Her leadership on the court led her team to a state championship each year she competed, a testament to her hard work and the supportive bonds she developed with her teammates. “The most fun part was doing it with my friends,” she recalled, highlighting the collective efforts that fueled their success.
Choosing Wake Forest was an easy decision for Cy, who committed in July 2022. Moving almost 1,000 miles across the country, she quickly adapted to the campus culture and climate. “It’s definitely warmer here!” she remarked, noting the differences between the Midwest and East Coast.
As a newcomer in collegiate volleyball, Cy is part of a strong group of freshmen. Currently, she is preparing for the second half of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) schedule, facing the challenges of a more competitive environment. The transition from high school to college sports has been eye-opening, particularly in terms of the speed and physicality of the game. “In college, you study players for hours,” she explained, illustrating a shift from playing based on instinct to a more analytical approach.
Cy is focused on her growth, both on and off the court. She wants to maintain her academic performance while forging new friendships, a challenge she acknowledges due to her busy schedule. With aspirations of enhancing her training in the offseason, she understands the importance of building strength and speed for continued success in volleyball.
This exciting chapter of Cy Rae Campbell’s life is a crucial stepping stone, filled with opportunities for personal development and athletic achievement. As she embraces the challenges and joys of her first year, the journey ahead holds promise and the potential for great experiences.