Rya McKinnon, a standout volleyball player from Howard University, shines in the annual Senior Spotlight series. The three-time MEAC Player of the Year reflects on her transition from gymnastics to volleyball, crediting her family and coaches for her success. McKinnon emphasizes the importance of teamwork, describes her pre-game rituals, and shares plans to coach at the high school level after graduation.

By the Numbers
  • Three-time MEAC Player of the Year.
  • Two-time AVCA All-America Honorable Mention.
  • Three-time MEAC Volleyball All-Academic honoree.
Yes, But

While McKinnon celebrates her achievements, the demands of maintaining high performance over three seasons pose a significant challenge, highlighting the pressure on athletes to consistently excel.

State of Play
  • McKinnon played a pivotal role in leading Howard to a regular-season conference title.
  • She maintains strong academic credentials alongside athletic achievements.
What's Next

Post-graduation, McKinnon aims to contribute back to her community by coaching, helping to inspire the next generation of volleyball players.

Bottom Line

Rya McKinnon's journey reflects dedication and resilience, both in athletics and academics. Her story serves as an inspiration for future student-athletes to embrace teamwork and hard work.