by Trina Walker
Putting on her Titan jersey for every game, means more than just volleyball, it means family to Kristin Stoeser, a junior at Carl Albert High School.

“Volleyball has taught me that no matter how bad things get there is always a chance to come back. I love the energy! Getting hyped up for a teammate after a big kill is the best feeling ever!” she said.

Kristin is inspired by her coaches. “They always know what to say and how to encourage us even when we are down in deep ruts,” says Kristin, “you only get two seconds after you mess up to be upset and after that you have to move on to the next point.” This advice has helped her focus on skill rather than emotion.

The passion for volleyball began in fifth grade. Kristen and her best friend, Eden Schroeder, looked up to Eden’s older sister who played high school volleyball. Kristen and Eden started going into the gym early in the mornings getting lessons from their gym teacher.

“My teammates Kate Mathena and Kiley Baker, the libero and middle on my 16s team at Charge Volleyball, are truly the best leaders I’ve ever had on the court with me. Anytime our team had a rough time on the court they came right up with me after every point and made sure to hype everyone up with me. These two girls have become lifelong friends and people I will forever be grateful for.

“I’d like to shoutout my mom for always finding ways to get me into lessons and always pushing me to be the best I can be on the court, and my dad for always showing up to every one of my games to support me,” Kristin said.

When Kristin gets a break from the volleyball court she would love to spend it in Alabama deep sea fishing with her family. “The long hours out on the water is so much fun, and last time we caught two sharks,” she recalls.

Kristin also plays golf, is in FCA, NHS, and the National Guard Teen Panel.