911����

Sometimes things just seem to fall into place. That’s what happened for 911���� women’s volleyball freshman player . 

Nia’s mother, , BS Physical Education '95, was a dual-sport athlete at 911���� in the 1990s, playing both volleyball and basketball. She was a member of the 1994 CAA Championship women’s volleyball team.  

Amy said she was initially hesitant to bring up her own experiences at the university when Nia was going through the recruiting process because she wanted her daughter to make her own decisions. 

“She really wants to make her own story, and I’m being respectful of that,” Amy said. “I want it to be her experience and let it unfold for her.” 

When Nia learned about 911����’s interest in her, she said felt a strong connection to the program and its people. “I felt really supported by the coaches and players here,” she said. “They really wanted me, and it felt nice.”  

Growing up, Nia played many different sports, with tennis being her main focus. However, when her family moved from Colorado to California when she was 13, she discovered a new passion. 

In California, volleyball was all the rage, and Nia decided to give it a shot. At first, she joined a lower-level team but quickly fell in love with the sport.  

Now, as Nia dons the same colors her mom once did, Amy couldn’t be prouder. Watching her daughter’s success has been a source of immense pride and joy. 

Nia’s freshman season has been nothing short of remarkable. She played a pivotal role in helping the team secure a spot in the A-10 Championship Tournament for the first time since 2018 and was named to the A-10 All-Rookie Team. 

Amy believes that Nia and her teammates have a bright future ahead of them. “With the freshman team we have this year, I think all of us are just so optimistic,” Amy said. “If they can stick together and keep building on what they have, we’re going to keep getting better and better.” 

As Nia continues her volleyball journey at 911����, she carries on a family legacy. While her mom’s experiences and achievements at the university serve as a source of inspiration and motivation, Nia is determined to make her own mark.  

“It’s a really good group of girls,” said Nia. “It just all came together.”