Tori Feuerhelm, one of Ellsworth volleyball’s leaders on and off the floor, made the commitment to play at the next level for Rochester Community and Technical College in Minnesota.

“I originally looked at RCTC for the nursing standpoint, and then looked at their volleyball program,” Feuerhelm said. “I went to a match and met with the coach and she was super nice.”

The program’s success at the national level played a part in the decision.

Feuerhelm received high praise from Head Coach Kayla Klecker, citing her mindset as a reason she has made it this far.

“Tori has been one of our most energetic and enthusiastic leaders. She was a key person we could always lean on to lift our spirits, play with a positive attitude and celebrate her teammates in their successes,” Klecker said. “Whether she was on the court or bench she was always looking for ways to support her team and be a contributing player. Her enthusiasm to work with our younger athletes and youth players to share her love for volleyball and help elevate their skills is just another example of her selfless acts that our program will benefit from for years to come.”

Through the rollercoaster of emotions that is high school, Feuerhelm always enjoyed getting to play volleyball with her friends. Her favorite memory was dancing in the locker room on game days. She also mentioned this year’s playoff win 3-1 over Hayward and narrow 3-2 loss to the Middle Border Conference champion Osceola in the second round as moments she will always remember.

“Overall, going through high school sports,” Feuerhelm said. “It was a great opportunity and I’m very thankful for being able to play for Ellsworth.”

Klecker gave a few pieces of advice for Feuerhelm as she moves on to the next level.

“Try new things. Give yourself the opportunity to be uncomfortable, learn and grow as a student and an athlete,” Klecker said. “Stay coachable. Accepting feedback, adaptability and determination helps great students and athletes become unforgettable ones. Find joy in the journey. Enjoy the highs, learn from the lows and remember that you are in control of whatever this next chapter of your story looks like.”

Feuerhelm knows the transition to college is difficult both in the classroom and as an athlete, but she has already taken steps to make sure she is ready.

“I started taking some college classes this year as a senior,” Feuerhelm said. “I wanted to choose a college that was still close to home so I would still have family, but still be far enough away to experience stuff on my own. The RCTC coach explained to me we’re kind of like a family and community down there.”