Former starting setter Rachel Walker to take up coaching for Wildcats

WAYNE, Neb. — Rachel Walker would step into a uniform for the Wayne State Wildcats in 2018, a decision that would begin a career spanning 6 years with the Wildcats.

“As a freshman and sophomore, that was the biggest jump for me. [It] was just the mental game and confidence and learning. All the different things in college volleyball,” Walker said.

The NSIC first teamer and All-Central Region Tournament team setter ended her playing career with the Wildcats on a high note.

The team went to the Elite 8 for the first time since 2015 and ending her career with the second most assists in school history with 4,693 assists.

She will remain on the sidelines this year for the Wildcats but as a coach.

“I just want to be a tool for the girls as somebody that’s been there [and] done that that can relate to them and be that for them and be supportive,” Walker said.

Entering into his 20th year as head coach, Scott Kneifl said adding Walker to the coaching ranks will bring experience to an already veteran staff.

“Rachel was a coach on the court for us for the last couple of years being a six year player,” Kneifl said. “She did a lot of great things for us as a player and we’re excited to see what she can do as a coach.”

Although initially nervous, Walker’s former teammate and middle hitter Maggie Brahmer believes Walker will be a great asset, especially for the underclassmen.

“It’s just nice to have her there as a little piece of information here and there and a little tweak here and there,” Brahmer said. “It’s good, she’s got a good coaching eye. I’m excited to see what she’ll do.”

Walker does not know if coaching is in her future but is excited to help out the Wildcats anyway she can.

The Wayne State Wildcats open their season in St. Petersburg, FL on Sept. 5 against Adelphi University.