FALL 2026  |  When I think back to my years playing volleyball at Schreiner College from 1993–1996, so many memories come to mind. One of my favorites is traveling to games with Tino Salazar, Tandie Clements, Gina Rodela, and Amy Morris, jamming out to the van radio—not Pandora! Looking at Schreiner Mountaineer volleyball in 2026, it is amazing to see how much the game and college experience have changed. Yet, the heart of Mountaineer volleyball remains the same.

During my playing days, matches were best two out of three sets, while today’s women compete in best three out of five. Training has changed, too. We practiced after classes and endured two-a-days in the sweltering heat of Edington Gym, which had no air conditioning. Today’s Mountaineers practice from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m., before classes begin.

Travel and resources have also evolved. We traveled in vans and competed within the state, while today’s team takes charter buses to farther destinations, including out-of-state competitions. Our weight room was small, and the Kerrville Daily Times provided most of our publicity. Today, dedicated staff help track statistics, take photos, and share updates on social media.

Despite these changes, the challenges of being a student-athlete remain familiar. Balancing classes, practices, games, assignments, and exams requires discipline and organization. Missing class for competition means communicating with professors and keeping up with coursework. For those of us who also worked off campus, managing work added another responsibility.

Mental toughness is equally timeless. Athletes learn from mistakes, accept criticism, overcome injuries, and move forward after difficult games. Success isn’t always about winning; it’s also about how we respond when things get hard.

Perhaps the greatest similarity between my team and today’s Mountaineers is the camaraderie that comes from being part of something bigger than yourself. Teammates learn to respect different perspectives, celebrate one another’s successes, and support each other through disappointments. Those relationships often last far beyond the volleyball court.

Coaches also play a lasting role in shaping who we become. Whether coached by Barry Shaw or Jeremiah Tiffin, athletes learn lessons in accountability, perseverance, teamwork, leadership, and character that extend well beyond the game.

Comparing my experiences from 1993–1996 with those of the 2026 Mountaineers reminds me that while the details of volleyball may change, its most meaningful parts endure. The friendships formed through Mountaineer volleyball continue through life’s milestones, challenges, and celebrations.  For me, that is the best part of being a Mountaineer.

-Julie Fiedler ’97 | ’06
Alumni Development and Stewardship Officer

Share your story with us!
We’d love to hear all about any updates in our alumni’s lives, big or small – new careers, marriages, children, interesting trips, or whatever else you’d like to share. Submit your story here and it may be featured in future newsletters!

Update your information here
Fill out our online form to update your contact information with us so that we can stay in touch!