Olympic Aspirations for Powerplex’s Devyn Robinson

<p>When Devyn Robinson's team is playing in a gym, it's extremely hard to miss the energetic, high flying middle.  And, if you happen to miss seeing her, it's even more unlikely that you'll miss hearing her.  Robinson, who has developed a signature cheer for when her teammates get a block, can be heard from quite a few courts away.  Her “barking” cheer not only gets her teammates attention, but is just another reason why she's hard to forget. </p> <p></p> <p>Though Robinson, an Elite All-State Team member, has been playing volleyball since the 5^th grade, she credits her move to Iowa and Ankeny Centennial with her consistent improvement in the sport. </p> <p>“This move to Iowa has really been a big step in my volleyball career with playing for Ankeny Centennial. Being coached by Jessica Reinhart really pushed me to better my abilities.”</p> <p>Before coming to Ankeny, Robinson's family moved a few times, as her dad, Daniyal, is the assistant Men's Basketball coach at Iowa State University.  Being the daughter of a college basketball coach, Devyn has more knowledge of how college athletics work, and she used that to her advantage to choose the perfect school for her.  With countless choices in front of her, Robinson settled on Big 10 Powerhouse the University of Wisconsin. </p> <p>“I chose Wisconsin because I felt like I'd have a second home there. The coaching staff is amazing. I went there because I knew that everyone there would work with everything they've got and we all have the same goal, National Champions. My favorite part of the coaching staff is that they don't just see me as an object that can perform, they see me and chose me for the person that I am. And I know that even when they're tough on me that they still love and value me and they're only trying to get the best possible version of me.”</p> <p></p> <p>With college volleyball still another year away, Devyn isn't just bidding her time until college gets here.  Devyn spent a few weeks this past summer training with USA Volleyball, as she was one of 12 players Nationwide to be selected to compete in the NORCECA Girls' U18 Continental Championships, which were held in Honduras August 25^th through September 2^nd.  Team USA won the Championship, winning every match over the course of the week in straight sets.   </p> <p>"Playing for the National team was unforgettable.  I love every single one of those girls with all of my heart.  Even though I've only played with them a total of 3 weeks, I've never loved a group of girls more.  I've made best friends for life there.  It was surreal getting to play on such a national platform and just represent my country through the sport I love the most.  I plan to try out again in the spring.  The Olympic team after college is the goal and it won't be easy but it's something I'm willing to work hard for.”</p> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-6"></div> <div class="col-md-6"></div> <div class="col-md-6"> </div> <div class="col-md-6"> </div> </div>