Kiley Metzger: A Stellar Volleyball Career at SD Mines and a Bright Future Ahead

Kiley Metzger, a native of Rock Rapids, IA, has made a significant impact on the volleyball courts at South Dakota Mines. Her journey through the program has been nothing short of impressive, and while her time as a player at SD Mines has been remarkable, her future is poised for even greater accomplishments after graduation.

This season, Kiley Metzger helped lead the South Dakota Mines Hardrockers volleyball team to a solid 18-9 record, displaying both her skill and leadership on the court. As an essential part of the team, her calm demeanour and consistent playstyle have been crucial to the team’s success.

Building Strong Connections Through Volleyball

Reflecting on her time with the team, Metzger shared that the relationships she built with her teammates have been the most rewarding part of her career. “I think the people I’ve played with are the relationships I’ve built, and that makes everything a lot more fun. You only succeed when the team plays together. Volleyball isn’t an individual sport,” she said.

Her coach, Lauren Prochazka, praised Metzger’s leadership and influence on the team. “She’s a great leader, everyone loves her, but she pushes you. She doesn’t let you get away with anything. I think she’s the type of player that makes people feel comfortable at the same time. When she’s on the court, we feel calm, and when she’s off the court and hanging out with us, we feel at ease. She’s the type of athlete you always want around.”

A Key Player in the Hardrockers’ Rebuilding Process

Since Metzger’s arrival at SD Mines, the Hardrockers volleyball program has undergone significant improvements, and she has been at the forefront of that transformation. “When I first got here as a freshman, we won only a few games, but now we have a winning record and are near the top of the conference. Winning matches is more fun, and the energy in the gym is more competitive. Every practice is much more intense,” Metzger explained.

Her contributions to the team’s growth were instrumental, and as the Hardrockers continue to improve, Kiley has set the foundation for a bright future for the program.

A Promising Future in Electrical Engineering

Beyond volleyball, Kiley Metzger is on the cusp of a promising career in electrical engineering. As she prepares to graduate, she is set to take the next step in her career path, armed with both a Master’s degree and a job offer at DGR Engineering in her hometown of Rock Rapids, Iowa. “I’ve gotten a job at DGR Engineering back home in Rock Rapids, Iowa. I’ll be working in the electrical department, focusing on substations, power lines, and the power industry,” Metzger shared. “I’m not sure which specific area I’ll go into—maybe distribution, transmission, or substations—but I’ll be working at DGR.”

Her coach, Lauren Prochazka, was full of praise for Metzger’s future. “She’s gotten a lot of attention and offers from big companies, and it’s clear they want someone as smart as her, but also someone with the leadership and personality to manage and lead others. I just know that Kiley will go out and do great things in life,” she said.

A Role Model for Leadership and Success

Kiley Metzger is not only an exceptional athlete but also a shining example of how hard work, determination, and building meaningful relationships can lead to success. Her journey at South Dakota Mines has been one of growth and leadership, and as she steps into the next chapter of her life in the electrical engineering field, there is no doubt that she will continue to make an impact wherever she goes.

As Metzger moves on to the next phase of her career, both in volleyball and in her professional life, her future looks incredibly bright, and her legacy at SD Mines will be remembered for years to come.