The AAU has wrapped up their 2025 Junior Volleyball National Championships in early July of 2025. However, we are still passionate about highlighting our athletes who work hard every year to make it the premier event in youth volleyball.

For 14-year-old Katelyn Michel (Katey), a milestone, it was a defining moment in her young volleyball career. Katey participated in the 2025 AAU Junior Volleyball Nationals for the first time this year, playing for Cape Coast Volleyball Club’s Vulcan 15U State A team. Her journey to get to where she is truly impeccable.

Katey is a deaf, short-statured athlete, standing just 4’9”. She was also diagnosed at birth with Hirschsprung’s Disease, a rare condition that affects the large intestine and causes severe digestive issues. She underwent two life-saving surgeries as a baby, which resulted in the complete removal of her large intestine. Without such a major organ, Katey is now left to manage hydration, digestion, and her stamina for the rest of her life.

“It gets hard sometimes,” Katey shares. “but, I’m used to it now, and I won’t let it get in the way of things, or be an excuse.”

As mentioned before, Katey was also born completely Deaf in both ears. At the age of one, Katey received Cochlear Implants. She spent years of her younger life in speech therapy to learn how to listen and speak.

In the noisy environment of club volleyball, buzzing with whistles, music, shouting, and squeaking sneakers, her hearing devices pick up everything. Another challenge she faces that other athletes don’t, as much at times, it can get to be too much for her. Focusing in such a loud environment was just another thing Katey had to adapt to.

“I focus on the ball and my teammates, nothing else matters,” she says. “My eyes are my ears. I lip read, watch everyone’s body language, and stay focused.”

Despite all the challenges she’s faced, Katey has worked hard to develop into a standout libero and defensive specialist. These are strong positions in the sport that demand quick reflexes and exceptional court awareness.

“Being short in a ‘tall girls’ sport can be tough,” Katey admits. “Sometimes it’s hard for people to take me seriously, but I’ve learned to work harder and prove myself. I’ve had to overcome a lot, and I’m used to being the underdog, but volleyball gives me strength.”

As her team took the court at Nationals, Katey brought with her more than just skill. Katey brought resilience, perspective, and a deep love for the game. Her passion for volleyball and her excitement to make it to AAU Junior Volleyball Nationals has been heartwarming to see. With her strength and adaptability, it’s no secret she’ll go far.

“I just want to keep getting better and better so I can play volleyball as long as I can.”