Senior Spotlight: Katie Churm

AMES, Iowa - When Katie Churm arrived in Ames as a freshman in 2003 it was a bit of a culture shock for the California native. But like most student-athletes, she hit the ground running, playing in all but one match as a freshman and averaging 1.89 digs.

Since her arrival, Churm has been a fixture in the Cyclone lineup and consistent in every sense of the word. Last year, the libero, affectionately nicknamed ?Bug' by her teammates for her small frame, became the first Cyclone ever to lead the Big 12 in any statistical category, posting 4.35 digs per game.

This weekend Churm and her teammates will return to where her career began, Irvine, Calif., to face off against a tough field at the Irvine Nike Classic. The Cyclones will face the host Anteaters, Michigan and No. 20 San Diego.

Churm looks forward to the experience, one she wasn't sure would happen as her senior year approached.

“I knew there was a possibility that we would be able to travel to a tournament back home,” said Churm. “But I never got my hopes too high.”

“I am thrilled to finally get the chance to return home and play in front of both family and friends. For most of these people it has been at least four years since they've seen me play, making it even more special. At the same time, this tournament is very significant to making my senior season as a Cyclone a success.”

Churm expects a large contingent of supporters when the Cyclones take center stage at Crawford Court on Friday.

“Between friends and family the Cyclones should be set with a lot of California fan support,” said Churm.

Despite the many miles between California and Iowa, Churm has had plenty of opportunities to play in front of her parents, Steve and Cinda, who travel regularly to see her play and offer constant support of their oldest child.

“I have been so fortunate to have parents and siblings who are so supportive and have the opportunity to fly to Iowa and watch me play,” said Churm. “They get out to Ames a few times a year, as well as some away games, and it means the world to me to have them there. I grew up with two very supportive parents who came to all my club practices and games. Having them be able to watch me now is very special.”

Churm, who was recently named team captain by her teammates, earned all-tournament honors after helping the Cyclones to a 3-0 weekend at the season-opening Hawkeye Challenge.

“I couldn't have asked for a better opening weekend to my senior season,” said Churm. “We got three wins, came back from two games down to beat Iowa and give Iowa State an early lead in the Hy-Vee Cy-Hawk Series. You can't ask for much more than that.”

With a long season and grueling Big 12 schedule ahead, one thing is certain, Churm and her fellow seniors have left their mark on Iowa State volleyball.

“I always knew I wanted to play collegiate volleyball in a Division I program,” said Churm. “But I never could have imagined my experience ending up like it has. Being a Cyclone is a very special thing.”

When Churm joined the Cyclones, ISU was coming off a 10-22 season and a 1-19 finish in Big 12 play. Last year, the Cyclones were one of the biggest surprises nationally, going 16-15 overall, 9-11 in the Big 12 and just missing out on a NCAA Tournament berth.

“Since I have been here this program has had its ups and downs. But I am so proud and excited to be a part of the up and up. I am surrounded by phenomenal teammates and coaches and it couldn't be a better time to be a Cyclone volleyball player.”

Before the most anticipated road trip of her career, Churm and her teammates hope to dispose of another in-state rival, Northern Iowa, on Wednesday night in the home opener at Hilton Coliseum at 6:30 p.m.

Players Mentioned

Katie Churm

Katie Churm

Sponsors

Iowa State University Athletics