Sept. 25, 2003
By Chris Storms
Mizzou Media Relations
At first glance you would think Nicole Wilson plays a sport. At second glance you know she plays a sport. You may think it is basketball when they see the 6-3 freshman out of Lincoln, Neb., but you would be wrong. Wilson uses that height to dominate in the sport of volleyball as a middle blocker for the University of Missouri.
A calm and patient demeanor are words one would use about Wilson if they saw her only off the court. But, there is a transformation that happens when she plays the sport. She becomes more verbal and excited and the intensity brings it all together.
"When I get in the game I want to do whatever is needed to help the team," Wilson said. "I try my best to bring the energy back up and provide a spark."
Her talents go far beyond being a vocal leader.
Coming from Lincoln Christian High School, Wilson was a Super State first team selection and was twice named to the All-State first team along with many other accomplishments. So far this year, in limited playing time, she is fifth on the team in kills and points per game. This shows potential and will lead to more playing time, but definitely does not limit her goals.
"I want to get better in all aspects of the game and make this team the best it can be," Wilson said.
As a freshman it is not always easy to do these things, but at Missouri it isn't that hard. The main reason she chose Missouri over other schools such as Michigan and Baylor was the coaches.
"The way the coaches care about you beyond the volleyball aspect is great and makes things a lot easier."
The transition from high school to college can be difficult for any person, but is even harder for student-athletes.
"It isn't that hard considering all the help the Kreklows have been," Wilson said. "They have made it a lot smoother."
Remember how Nicole was calm and quiet off the court. Don't get used to it as she furthers her volleyball career at the University of Missouri.
As the season goes on, more and more people will recognize the towering freshman, but still won't really know who she is. She is a volleyball player and at the end of season most people will know this.
At first glance you think she plays a sport. At second glance you know she plays a sport. At third glance you know she plays volleyball. And at fourth glance you will know she is a force that can help the Tigers achieve their best season ever.