Former Olympian to Lead Culver-Stockton Volleyball Program

Canton, Mo. --- Caren Kemner, a three-time member of the United States Olympic volleyball team, has been named Culver-Stockton College's seventh volleyball coach as announced by athletic director Greg McVey on December 7.

"I am excited to have such a tremendous human being joining our coaching staff," said McVey in announcing Kemner's appointment. "Her athletic accomplishments, though significant, pale in comparison to her personal character and the passion she brings for teaching the game of life through the sport of volleyball."

Kemner replaces Rich Meyer, who announced his resignation in November after serving as the program's leader for five years.

"I am thrilled at the opportunity to take over the volleyball program at Culver-Stockton," said Kemner. "I am very confident and excited to work with and teach the game of volleyball to the young ladies on the Wildcat volleyball team."

A six-time recipient of the United States Female Volleyball Athlete of the Year Award, Kemner coached the previous two years at her alma mater, Quincy (Ill.) Notre Dame High School, where she helped the Lady Raiders to a 43-27 overall record, including a 24-10 mark and regional championship this past season. For her efforts, she was named the Quincy Herald-Whig's Coach of the Year.

"We are extremely pleased that Caren has agreed to lead the Wildcat volleyball program," said C-SC President Richard Valentine. "Her passion for and her achievements in the sport of volleyball are unmatched by anyone and we believe our student-athletes will benefit from that experience."

Once considered the best in the world at her sport, Kemner played in the 1988 Olympics, helped her team win a bronze medal in the 1990 world championships, was tabbed as the Federation of International Volleyball (FIVB) most valuable player in 1991, was the most outstanding player at the 1991 World Cup, and was named to the "all-spectacular" team after the United States won the bronze medal at the 1992 Olympics. She also played for Team USA at the 1996 Olympics.

In addition to her USA national team achievements, Kemner played professionally in Japan, Italy and Brazil. She also played two seasons at the University of Arizona where she was named to the All-America second team and the Pac-10 all-conference first team her sophomore season.

In high school, Kemner helped Quincy Notre Dame win a state championship and finish in third place during her four seasons. She was a three-time All-America and All-State selection, and was listed on the Volleyball Monthly Fab 50 roster in 1983. She was furthered honored as a member of the 1990 All-Time Fab 50 elite. She is a member of the University of Arizona and Quincy Notre Dame's Athletic Halls of Fame.