Grand Rapids Reporter

Ferris State University is set to honor one of its most influential figures in women's volleyball, Kathy DeBoer, as part of Women's History Month celebrations. The event, titled "A Night of History and Volleyball," will take place on March 22 at the Bulldog Arena within the Ewigleben Sports Complex. Attendees can enjoy free admission to a program starting at 5 p.m., followed by a Crimson versus Gold Scrimmage at 7 p.m.

Kathy DeBoer, an alumna of Michigan State where she played both volleyball and basketball, later joined Ferris State as a coach from 1980 to 1983. Reflecting on her initial year with the team, DeBoer said, "That year I lead the team to a 5-21 record, but Dean gave me another shot at it." She added humorously about her career choice: "I'm sure glad I didn't get into law school."

During her tenure at Ferris State, DeBoer led the Bulldogs to over 100 victories and secured GLIAC Championships in consecutive years. Her success continued when she moved on to coach at the University of Kentucky, where she was named National Coach of the Year in 1987.

Current Ferris State head coach Tia Brandel-Wilhelm praised DeBoer's contributions: "Kathy was a pioneer female athlete... She tenaciously built lasting volleyball programs." Brandel-Wilhelm acknowledged DeBoer's role in shaping successful volleyball programs across different levels.

DeBoer's influence extends beyond coaching; as CEO of the American Volleyball Coaches Association since 2006, she has been instrumental in promoting volleyball nationwide. Her efforts have notably helped establish Women's Beach Volleyball as an NCAA Championship Sport.

Commenting on her career journey and current work with League One Volleyball (LOVB), DeBoer remarked: "I feel as if I've come full circle in my career... Fifty years in, we are ready to claim our own space . . . and for me, it all started at Ferris."

The Ferris State Women's Volleyball Team competes in Division II within the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) and has claimed nine championships over the past decade.

For further details about this event or information about Ferris State's volleyball program, visit their official website.