After a successful season, Century College Women’s volleyball team reached the Division III National Championship for the second year in a row. This time around, the team achieved an impressive #2 ranking.
In the Championship Quarterfinals, the Wood Ducks secured a 3-0 victory against the College of DuPage from Illinois. The next day, they won another 3-0 victory in the semifinals against Owens Community College from Ohio. The climactic final game unfolded against the Eastfield Harvester Bees from Dallas, Texas, on Saturday, November 11th, 2023. Though they lost that game 3-0 and were unable to claim the national title, they ultimately finished with an outstanding 29-5 overall record, making 2023 the team’s most successful season to date.
The Wood Ducks can reflect on a remarkable journey of teamwork as the season draws to a close. During the fall 2023 season, the team faced challenges head-on, using each obstacle as an opportunity for growth.
In an interview with The Century Times, Coach Jay Kam candidly revealed the trials and tribulations that the Wood Ducks navigated throughout the season. “We felt the pressure of being the top team in the country,” Kam admitted, shedding light on the unique challenges that come with holding such a position. This statement speaks to the team’s resilience as they faced the heightened expectations that accompany being a leading force in collegiate volleyball and provides a glimpse into the team’s journey to excel at the highest level of competition.
The Wood Duck’s commitment to improvement was evident not only in their victories but also in their ability to learn and adapt from setbacks. As they reflect on the season, they can take pride in the bonds forged, the lessons learned, and the community they created.
“In terms of reflection, I am going to really miss this team,” Kam said, going on to describe in detail how close-knit the Wood duck team is. “While we were a good team in terms of playing volleyball, the people on our team are pretty remarkable.”
Player #10 Sydney Withrow also spoke to the team’s strong sense of community. “Our overarching goal is to be good people, on and off the court,” Withrow stated. She highlighted the team’s practice of expressing gratitude to opposing teams, friends, family, trainers, referees, and officials who contribute to the game’s success.
In interviews with Kam and Withrow, there was a common appreciation not only for other teams but also for the sport of volleyball. Withrow acknowledged everyone who had made it possible for them to play, especially their Athletic Trainer Jen Reddy and Assistant Coach Nikki Higley. She explained how she felt a sense of belonging within the team and connected with the community at Century. Additionally, Withrow described how the Wood Ducks have actively engaged in community service. She mentioned a heartwarming event where the Wood Duck Volleyball Team volunteered at an assisted living home. The activities they participated in included painting nails, playing games, and singing karaoke, which eventually became a memorable dance party.
Looking ahead, the foundation of this successful season sets the stage for continued achievements and a promising future for the Century College Wood ducks volleyball program.
