Matt Siefken

ALT My experience as a college athlete has taught me so many valuable lessons that I will use for the rest of my life, including discipline, leadership, and selflessness. I am so thankful for the opportunity to do what I love at the collegiate level. My biggest piece of advice is to remember that playing sports is a privilege, not your purpose, and that while being an athlete is a great attribute, it does not define who you are. Abbie Gleason, Women’s Soccer

ALT Playing sports and being a female college athlete has taught me so much about being confident in myself and working hard, resulting in success on the court while also giving me tools and skills I can transfer into all aspects of my life. I would encourage all girls to try sports and continue to push for female visibility! Madison Siefken, Volleyball

ALT Being a female college athlete has taught me that consistency, trusting the process, and showing up on hard days can be rewarding. Sports have helped shape me into the person I am today and taught me many valuable lessons I will carry with me throughout my life. Sports have given me friendships, memories, and opportunities. I am so grateful to be part of such a great team and university and hope to leave a legacy that inspires the next generation of female athletes. Makenna Cox, Volleyball

ALT As a woman who is just building her career in athletics administration, I’m inspired by the courage and drive of our female student-athletes. Supporting them not only on the field or court, but in the classroom, and as leaders is one of the greatest honors of my role. To every young girl dreaming big: keep going. You belong here. Amy Pruitt, Assistant Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Excellence

ALT IT'S GAME DAY, vs. Central Missouri at 6 PM. UIS & Illinois National Guard logos

ALT Head Volleyball Coach Laura Ulrich. UIS Athletics logo, a photo of Ulrich coaching.