Freshman sensation helps turn program around

As a five time all-state honoree, a four time team MVP, and Louisiana's Gatorade State Player of the Year, freshman Katherine Broussard has accomplished a lot in her nine year volleyball career but as she begins her collegiate journey she only has one goal in mind, winning the MEAC Championships.

After last year's last place conference finish, the lady Bison currently sit on top of the MEAC standings with a 8-4 record and are undefeated in the conference. Broussard has been a huge part of this success. She has posted eight double-doubles on the season, and has been named the MEAC's Player of the Week and Rookie of the Week in back to back weeks.

"I just try to do my best and stay as consistent as I can," Broussard said. "It's worked well so far."

The starting outside hitter from New Orleans was introduced to the sport at age nine. From childhood it was clear that she was a strong athlete as she excelled in both softball and basketball; but since seventh grade, when she was asked to come play for the high school volleyball team, Broussard has been solely committed to the sport.

As a top high school recruit, Broussard received lots of college offers, but only seriously considered Tulane, University of North Florida, and Howard. She said she felt most comfortable here.

"When I came on my visit I just felt at home," Broussard said. "Plus I want to be a doctor and Howard has a good medical school."

Despite her early success, like most freshman athletes her first college game was not one short on nerves.

"The first game was against American and they were huge, like all over six feet, so I was pretty nervous," said Broussard.

Since that game, Broussard has shown no signs of nerves and has become a very integral part of this Bison team. She credits her stellar play to the discipline that college volleyball has instilled in her.

"There are no sucky teams in college," Broussard said. "Every team you play can beat you. So you have to be disciplined every day in practice. Its like a job."

Along with playing well, another part of her job is balancing volleyball with her school work, which Broussard has found to be the hardest adjustment thus far.

"[Balancing school and volleyball] has been difficult but I think talking to my teachers has helped because they're pretty lenient. Hopefully they continue to be," said Broussard.

As Broussard continues her collegiate career she is expected to become a major force not just on this team, but in the conference. If she and the rest of the Howard team can keep up this pace, Broussard's goal of winning a MEAC Championship may come sooner than most could have ever expected.