The journey through a first year of college is a unique and transformative experience, filled with excitement and challenges. Freshmen arriving on campus are often filled with ambition and hopes for the year ahead. Cy Rae Campbell, a first-year middle hitter on the Wake Forest volleyball team, is currently immersed in her own adventures during the 2024-25 academic year in Winston-Salem. As she approaches the midpoint of her inaugural season, Cy is balancing the pressures of exam preparation with the thrill of navigating collegiate athletics.
November holds special significance for Campbell, as it is also National Native American Heritage Month—a time she values for celebrating culture and community. “This month means a lot to me,” she said. “It’s about celebrating our past, present, and future, and advocating for the things that matter to us.”
Raised in Olathe, Kansas, Cy grew up actively participating in various sports and embracing her roots as a member of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska. She emphasizes the importance of community and family in her life, noting the value of having connections that understand her cultural background. “Native Americans have always been involved in American culture,” she remarked, illustrating her commitment to giving back.
Cy’s upbringing in a close-knit environment made her childhood enriching. She appreciated the convenience of local activities in Olathe, although she noted a lack of after-school programs, which led her to focus on sports like volleyball and basketball. Her dedication to volleyball paid off, as she emerged as a top prospect nationally while attending Heritage Christian Academy. Throughout her high school career, Cy achieved remarkable success, earning state championships for four consecutive years in addition to multiple accolades highlighting her standout athletic abilities.
When it came time to choose a college, Cy fell in love with Wake Forest early in her recruitment process and committed before her junior year. Moving from Kansas to the East Coast was a significant transition, but she welcomed the change, noting the warmer climate and the inclusive atmosphere of the campus. “I really like how Wake Forest has things that are very inclusive, especially their Pro Humanitate motto and spirit,” she expressed, emphasizing her belief in the importance of shared values.
As part of Wake Forest’s volleyball program, Cy is learning to adapt to a higher level of competition, noting the differences in speed and physicality compared to high school. “There’s a difference when you’re playing against older players who are fully developed,” she explained. She also highlighted the analytical aspect of the game in college, where the focus shifts to studying opponents in detail to identify weaknesses and enhance team performance.
As Cy continues to navigate her college experience, she remains dedicated to her academic success while aiming to form new friendships and strengthen her skills in the offseason. “That’s when you become faster and stronger,” she stated, showcasing her determination to improve.
Cy Rae Campbell’s journey reflects the resilience and potential of student-athletes as they embrace new challenges and work towards their goals. As she navigates her first year, her commitment to both her studies and her sport sets a promising foundation for her future endeavors.
In summary, Campbell’s story highlights the harmonious blend of cultural pride, athletic ambition, and academic dedication that define the college experience. With her grounded perspective and a strong sense of community, she represents the hopeful achievements that lie ahead for many young athletes embarking on their college journeys.