North Carolina State University Athletics
NC State Volleyball Alumni Spotlight: Nikki Stemler O’Connell
10/31/2018 4:53:00 PM | Women's Volleyball
With NC State Volleyball's Alumni Weekend (Nov. 2-4) this weekend, we continue our features on an Alumnae of the program. Today's spotlight is focused on Nikki Stemler O'Connell, who was an outside hitter with the Wolfpack from 1998-2001.
GoPack.com recently caught up with her for a brief Q&A.
How would you describe your experience at NC State?
My experience at NC State was very eventful and to be honest not always easy. Unfortunately, during my four years, we did not have the most success on court as they do today, but I would still not trade it for a minute. The lessons I learned as a student-athlete are invaluable and have helped shape me into the person I am today.
What did you enjoy most about playing volleyball for the Wolfpack?
When I think about what I enjoyed most about playing for NC State, I have to admit what comes to mind first is all the amazing people that crossed my path. From my teammates, to coaches, to support staff to professors, they are what made NC State so enjoyable to me. To name just a few, Brenda Keene was our equipment manager and she was always the first smile you saw when you walked in Reynolds before heading to the locker room. I have such fond memories of just sitting in her office; chatting, laughing and telling stories. Wright Wayne was our strength and conditioning coach that not only made me into a track star but also looked out for us and always had time to know how our day was going. Cathy Crossland was my academic advisor that went out of her way to make it to volleyball matches to show her support and even showed up to show her support at my first job as a teacher.
What was your most memorable moment?
If I have to name just one, my most memorable moment at NC State has to be those early morning track dates! At the time, I probably hated them, actually I know I did, but looking back those "track" mornings were where my teammates & I bonded the most!!
How does it feel to come back to matches now and see the team play inside of the new Reynolds?
I am blown away by the new Reynolds and I am just so excited for all the girls that get to play there and call it their home!
How much did your time at NC State prepare you for life after college and your current profession?
Currently, I work at Triangle Volleyball Club which is located here in Morrisville. At Triangle, I serve as a team coach and the recruiting coordinator for all our athletes that wish to pursue volleyball in college. As a former collegiate athlete, I love that I am in a position that allows me to share my passion for sports, help young players purse their dreams, teach life lessons through volleyball and give back to the sport that gave me so much!
What piece of advice would you offer to current players on the team and student-athletes at NC State?
Build relationships and be grateful.
1 - The relationships you have with your teammates, coaches, professors, support staff and fans are so incredibly important. In 10 years from now, no one will ever remember how many points you scored, but everyone will remember how you made them feel. Truly, take the time to get to know all those that have supported you in your journey. Build relationships.
2 - Remember, that you are so very blessed to have the opportunity to put on a WOLFPACK jersey. There are so many young athletes that dream of playing Division I and wearing the Red and White but were never asked and will never get the opportunity. Be grateful, show gratitude and hopefully one day give back.
GoPack.com recently caught up with her for a brief Q&A.
How would you describe your experience at NC State?
My experience at NC State was very eventful and to be honest not always easy. Unfortunately, during my four years, we did not have the most success on court as they do today, but I would still not trade it for a minute. The lessons I learned as a student-athlete are invaluable and have helped shape me into the person I am today.
What did you enjoy most about playing volleyball for the Wolfpack?
When I think about what I enjoyed most about playing for NC State, I have to admit what comes to mind first is all the amazing people that crossed my path. From my teammates, to coaches, to support staff to professors, they are what made NC State so enjoyable to me. To name just a few, Brenda Keene was our equipment manager and she was always the first smile you saw when you walked in Reynolds before heading to the locker room. I have such fond memories of just sitting in her office; chatting, laughing and telling stories. Wright Wayne was our strength and conditioning coach that not only made me into a track star but also looked out for us and always had time to know how our day was going. Cathy Crossland was my academic advisor that went out of her way to make it to volleyball matches to show her support and even showed up to show her support at my first job as a teacher.
What was your most memorable moment?
If I have to name just one, my most memorable moment at NC State has to be those early morning track dates! At the time, I probably hated them, actually I know I did, but looking back those "track" mornings were where my teammates & I bonded the most!!
How does it feel to come back to matches now and see the team play inside of the new Reynolds?
I am blown away by the new Reynolds and I am just so excited for all the girls that get to play there and call it their home!
How much did your time at NC State prepare you for life after college and your current profession?
Currently, I work at Triangle Volleyball Club which is located here in Morrisville. At Triangle, I serve as a team coach and the recruiting coordinator for all our athletes that wish to pursue volleyball in college. As a former collegiate athlete, I love that I am in a position that allows me to share my passion for sports, help young players purse their dreams, teach life lessons through volleyball and give back to the sport that gave me so much!
What piece of advice would you offer to current players on the team and student-athletes at NC State?
Build relationships and be grateful.
1 - The relationships you have with your teammates, coaches, professors, support staff and fans are so incredibly important. In 10 years from now, no one will ever remember how many points you scored, but everyone will remember how you made them feel. Truly, take the time to get to know all those that have supported you in your journey. Build relationships.
2 - Remember, that you are so very blessed to have the opportunity to put on a WOLFPACK jersey. There are so many young athletes that dream of playing Division I and wearing the Red and White but were never asked and will never get the opportunity. Be grateful, show gratitude and hopefully one day give back.
Pack Volleyball Then and Now. Playing Venues & Program Growth
Wednesday, November 05
Pack Volleyball Then and Now. Players Discuss the Game They Played
Monday, October 06
Pack Volleyball Then and Now. Coaches Discuss How the Game is Played
Thursday, October 02
Pack Volleyball Then and Now. Former Players Compare Uniforms and Gear
Friday, September 12