From the outside looking in, when volleyball injuries are brought up, most people would probably go straight to leg and shoulder problems. However, for Texas A&M outside hitter Kyndal Stowers, it was concussions that sidelined her for over a year. With a ton of hard work and support from Jamie Morrison, her love for the game rekindled.
While at Baylor, she suffered a staggering four concussions during her freshman year that led to her being involuntarily medically retired from the team. Now back at home and mulling over whether she wants to enter the portal, it was the first time in decades that volleyball did not rule her daily schedule.
She conceded it was a much‑needed break and got to spend a lot of time simply enjoying being around her family. After that break, she was ready to get back on the court, and being familiar with Texas A&M made the decision easier, and Coach Morrison sealed the deal.
It came with a ton of conditions to ensure her safety, and she did everything asked of her to get back on the court. Stowers got stronger as the season went along and became one of the top players in the NCAA Tournament. Following the championship game, she answered what it felt like to be a national champion after watching the game from her couch last season.
“How does one even summarize that? A year ago today, I sat on my couch and watched some good friends of mine win this game. To now be living that is so surreal. It was a journey to get here. Good days, bad days. It took this guy sitting next to me believing in me after not playing volleyball for over a year and a half.”
What a ride it has been, and with nine seniors graduating, she will be looked at next season as one of the leaders of the new generation of Aggie volleyball.
Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes, and opinions. Follow Jarrett Johnson on X: @whosnextsports1.
This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: ‘So surreal’: Texas A&M sophomore reflects on journey back from injury
Reporting by Jarrett Johnson, Aggies Wire / Aggies Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
