When freshman Kendall Turner first picked up a volleyball back in seventh grade, she didn’t imagine the game would take her from Ohio to Utica University. But as the years went on, the biochemistry major realized she wasn’t ready to leave the sport behind.
“Once I started, I just couldn’t give it up,” Turner said. “Volleyball has been such a big part of my life.”
Now in her first season with the Pioneers, Turner is making her presence felt both on and off the court. She describes herself as someone who brings energy and positivity to every match. “I try to have a presence on the court and be a cheerleader for everyone else,” she said. “I always want to lift my teammates up.”
The transition from high school to college volleyball has been a learning experience for Turner, who was a team leader during her prep days.
“In high school, I was used to being one of the leaders,” Turner said. “Coming to college, I’ve had to take a step back and learn from players who are older than me. It’s a lot more competitive, but it’s made me better.”
Her favorite moment this season came when Utica pulled off a comeback win against SUNY Geneseo. “When we reverse swept them, that was a turning point for us,” she said. “We locked in and got the win—it was such a great feeling.”
Turner credits the team’s chemistry for their success, emphasizing the bond she’s formed with her teammates. “It feels like a real sisterhood,” Turner said. “I can ask the girls anything, and they’d be there for me. We instantly clicked—we’re always laughing together.”
On game days, Turner likes to keep things light but focused. Her pre-game ritual includes music to get in the zone. “I usually listen to Drake to get hyped, but I like to chill out with Daniel Caesar too.”
Off the court, Turner balances a demanding schedule of classes and practices with surprising ease. “Honestly, I have more free time than I thought,” she said. “You just have to prioritize your body and rest when you need it.”
When it comes to her growth as a player, Turner said she’s worked hardest on playing smarter. “You don’t always have to hit the ball hard,” she said. “It’s about being strategic and finding the open spots.”
One of Turner’s biggest inspirations comes from someone close to home—her childhood friend who she calls her “little sister.” The two played together for years and pushed each other to improve. “She’s always been like a role model to me,” Turner said.
As for her goals, Turner is focused on both academics and athletics. “I want to keep my GPA high and help the team make a deep run in the Empire 8,” she said. “I’m just a freshman, but I want to show that working hard makes anything possible.”
Outside of volleyball, Turner said she loves to travel and explore new places. “The Dominican Republic is one of my favorite places I’ve been.”
Turner’s drive, positivity, and determination are already making an impact on the Utica volleyball program—and it’s clear she’s just getting started.
The Utica University volleyball team is set to compete for the Empire 8 championship and is ranked as the seventh seed. The pioneers will travel to face the second seed Hartwick on Saturday November 8
