Kenzie Mantz excited to join Cyclones
When Kenzie Mantz first started playing volleyball, the 5th grader probably didn't realize just how far the sport would take her, or the opportunities it would present her in the next handful of years. Fast forward through the years, to her first experience with club ball, a tryout for the Rockets at 13, to reaching the 1,000 kill mark her junior year in high school, and then her club team placing all the way to 3rd Place at the National Tournament, and volleyball has been one heck of a ride.
“An experience I will remember the rest of my life was the first phone call from Lauren Hansen, volleyball recruiter. She wanted to talk to me about colleges wanting to see me. I cannot thank her enough for what she has done for my volleyball career.”
That experience would soon lead her to deciding between a lot of great college programs. But her sophomore year she was sure of where she wanted to land.
“I chose Iowa State because I fell in love with the volleyball program. The coaching staff is so supportive, and the players are so encouraging of one another. When I am in the gym it is just a great feeling. Another thing that stood out to me was the campus. I like how everything is in one location and has an open feeling to it. The last big plus, it is only a little over an hour from home so my family can come to the games.
“The thing that I am most looking forward to is being apart of a great volleyball program. I love to compete, so I am excited to be pushed to be the best volleyball player I can be. I can't wait to put on the Cyclone jersey. GO CYCLONES!”
The 2nd Team All-State player finished her senior season at Belle Plaine with 360 kills, 270 digs, 51 blocks, and 48 aces. She plays this season with the Eastern Iowa Xtreme 18 Teal.
