University Star

Texas State has a unique opportunity going into the Western Athletic Conference. When the university continues forward as “The Rising Star of Texas,” there is only one way to make any real progress. We must look back and honor an individual who is as unique to San Marcos as the river itself.

First, a piece of trivia: Who are the active NCAA Division I volleyball coaches with more wins than Texas State coach Karen Chisum? Dave Shoji, Russ Rose, Kathy Gregory, Mick Haley and John Dunning.

Do any of those names ring a bell?

All except Gregory own multiple NCAA championships, and Gregory and Rose are already inducted into the U.S. Volleyball Hall of Fame. That’s it. That’s the short list of active coaches with more wins than Texas State’s very own.

Let’s be fair—the university has done an excellent job of recognizing Chisum and her accomplishments. She became a Distinguished Alumna last year, and was the first woman inducted into the “T” Association Hall of Honor.

But with new heights, it is time to up the ante. It cannot be overstated how important, how legendary, Chisum has been for the Maroon and Gold.

She is the current assistant athletics director, an avid supporter of Bobcat athletics (often seen in the stands for most sports) and not to mention, one heck of a volleyball coach. She has even co-authored a book.

The university needs to seriously consider re-naming the court in Strahan Coliseum after her, or building a statue in front of the entrance. None of the current students were here to witness Milton Jowers, Jim Wacker, or any other legendary Bobcat coaches. Chisum represents a local legend they can connect with. Even better, her teams flat-out win.

Of course, she would never agree to the aforementioned proposals. That’s just who she is. Even after 743 wins and counting, Chisum is as humble as they come, and truly invests in the lives of others. She is the epitome of what all Bobcats should aspire to become. Students would be hard-pressed to be as successful in their respective fields as she is.

She patrols the sideline with professionalism, and runs all sorts of clinics for young players. Her players often earn high academic awards. If volleyball were a more popular sport, one might even see her on ESPN during the season.

So, following 32 years of winning volleyball, here’s hoping for 32 more.

“Karen Chisum Court”- it has a nice ring to it.