East Lansing, MI, September 9, 2025
News Summary
Kristen Kelsay has stepped into the role of head women’s volleyball coach at Michigan State University, focusing on building a supportive team culture. Kelsay, a former MSU player, started her coaching journey with a perfect record in her initial matches, emphasizing personal and athletic growth for her players. The Spartans are off to a strong start this season, underlining Kelsay’s commitment to creating a family environment within the team.
East Lansing Welcomes Kristen Kelsay as Head Coach of MSU Volleyball
East Lansing, MI – Kristen Kelsay has officially taken on the role of head women’s volleyball coach at Michigan State University (MSU), aiming to foster a culture that emphasizes a “Spartan family” among her players. Kelsay, who once played for the Spartans, has a vision to create a supportive team environment that drives both personal and athletic growth.
Kelsay’s coaching debut took place on August 30, 2025, where the Spartans achieved a decisive victory by sweeping Merrimack in three games. This win marked the beginning of a promising season, with Kelsay currently holding a perfect record of 4-0 as head coach following additional victories, including a match against Western Michigan on September 8. Her family’s presence at her inaugural match added a sentimental touch, which Kelsay described as “really special.”
Coaching Journey and Achievements
Your new head coach is not new to MSU. Kelsay graduated from St. Francis High School in 2010 and played as a setter for the MSU women’s volleyball team from 2010 to 2013. During her collegiate career, she earned recognition as a two-time co-captain and received multiple awards, including two Big Ten Conference Sportsmanship Awards and three Big Ten Distinguished Scholar honors. Kelsay ranks fourth in the program’s history for sets played and seventh for total assists.
After completing her degree in psychology, Kelsay transitioned to coaching, working as a graduate assistant and later as an assistant coach under Cathy George at MSU. Her coaching experience also includes roles at Northwestern and Minnesota, where she honed her skills and developed a strong foundation in team management.
Support from the Community and Athletic Department
Upon her appointment on December 22, 2024, following the dismissal of the previous head coach, Leah Johnson, Kelsay received a warm welcome from the East Lansing campus community. Athletic director Alan Haller reached out to her just a day after Johnson’s departure, signifying the university’s confidence in Kelsay’s potential to lead the program.
In her inaugural season, Kelsay focuses on core values such as daily improvement and class representation on and off the court. Her objective is not only to cultivate elite volleyball players who contribute to the team’s success but also to ensure that they graduate with the skills necessary for life beyond sports.
Team Highlights and Upcoming Matches
The current Spartans roster includes notable players such as junior libero Lia Schneider and sophomore middle blocker Breccan Scheck. Kelsay’s first match against Merrimack showcased standout performances, particularly from players Evie Doezema and Taylah Holdem, who led the team in kills, contributing to an overall hitting percentage of .253. The team’s impressive start continued, as evidenced by their season-high total of 68 kills during the match against Western Michigan.
The Spartans are preparing for upcoming matches, including their participation in the Kennesaw State Invitational in Kennesaw, Georgia, on September 11, where they will look to maintain their successful trajectory under Kelsay’s leadership.
FAQs
What is Kristen Kelsay’s role at Michigan State University?
Kristen Kelsay is the head women’s volleyball coach at Michigan State University.
When did Kelsay start her role as head coach?
Kelsay began her position as head coach on December 22, 2024, after being appointed following the dismissal of the previous coach.
How has the MSU volleyball team performed under Kelsay’s leadership?
The team is currently 4-0, with wins against Merrimack and Western Michigan marking Kelsay’s successful start to the season.
What are Kelsay’s goals for the team?
Kelsay aims to build a sense of community within the team while ensuring that players excel on the court and are prepared for life after volleyball.
When will the Spartans next play?
The Spartans will compete in the Kennesaw State Invitational on September 11, 2025.
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Additional Resources
- MSU Spartans News: Career Highs Push Spartans Past Broncos
- Wikipedia: Michigan State Spartans Volleyball
- MSU Spartans News: Volleyball Travels to Western Michigan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Volleyball
- WILX: MSU Volleyball Gets Kristen Kelsay Her First Win
- Google Search: Michigan State University Volleyball
- Daily Herald: St. Francis Grad Kelsay Focuses on Family
- Google News: Kristen Kelsay MSU
- MSU Spartans News: Spartans Ground Screaming Eagles
- Google Scholar: Kristen Kelsay Volleyball
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