The experience of a first year in college is unique and often filled with excitement and ambition, a sentiment shared by many newcomers. Wake Forest volleyball’s first-year player, Cy Rae Campbell, is currently embarking on this journey at her new campus in Winston-Salem for the 2024-25 school year. As she approaches the midpoint of her inaugural season, Cy reflects on her experiences both on and off the court while preparing for her exams and the remaining matches.
November holds special significance for Cy, as it is National Native American Heritage Month. “This month means a lot to me,” she expressed. “It’s about celebrating our past, present, and future, highlighting what we can advocate for as a community.”
Hailing from Olathe, Kansas, Cy has been actively engaged in sports since childhood, drawing pride from her membership in the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska. She emphasizes the essential connection of family and community within Native American culture, which she believes is vital to understanding shared values and experiences.
Growing up in Olathe provided Cy with a balanced lifestyle, engaging in outdoor activities and sports like volleyball and basketball. She excelled at Heritage Christian Academy, where she became one of the top prospects in the nation, securing a state championship for four consecutive years and earning multiple accolades for her performance.
Cy fell in love with Wake Forest early in her recruitment process, committing to the school in July 2022. The transition from Kansas to North Carolina introduced her to a warmer climate, and she enjoys the inclusive atmosphere on campus, particularly resonating with the university’s Pro Humanitate motto.
On the volleyball court, Cy is one of several fresh faces on the team, and she is quickly adapting to the collegiate level of play, noting a higher intensity compared to high school and a more strategic approach to analyzing opponents. “It’s definitely a different speed of the game,” she shared, illustrating her dedication to understanding and improving her performance.
Looking ahead, Cy has clear objectives for her college experience: maintaining her academic performance, forging new friendships, and focusing on her training in the offseason to enhance her skills. With a positive attitude and commitment to both her studies and volleyball, the future looks bright as she continues to embrace the challenges and opportunities that college life presents.
In summary, Cy Rae Campbell exemplifies the spirit of resilience and determination that characterizes many first-year college students. As she continues to navigate this exciting chapter of her life, her passion for volleyball and commitment to her heritage offer her a strong foundation for growth and success. The journey ahead is filled with promise and potential for this young athlete.