LOVB Advisor Kathy DeBoer inducted into the AVCA Hall of Fame

We’re proud to share the induction of one of our esteemed LOVB advisors into the AVCA Hall of Fame: Kathy DeBoer. Kathy served as the AVCA’s executive director for 17 years, and now she joined the AVCA Hall of Fame the 97th distinguished and sole inductee of the Class of 2023.

Kathy’s illustrious career began during her collegiate years, where she played volleyball and basketball at Michigan State. She continued her career at Ferris State, where she achieved coaching success reaching the 100-win milestone in just four seasons. Later at Kentucky, she became the first coach in the school’s history to attain 200 wins. Under her leadership, the Wildcats made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including four trips to the Sweet Sixteen and one trip to the Elite Eight, earning her the title of AVCA Division I National Coach of the Year in 1987.

Throughout her career, Kathy has been a prominent advocate for volleyball, tirelessly working to expand opportunities for players and coaches. Her unwavering commitment is encapsulated in her guiding motto – “make volleyball matter” – a testament to her dedication to championing the sport. Volleyball is one of the most played sports by high school girls, no doubt thanks to help from Kathy’s hard work and dedication. We at LOVB are so lucky to have Kathy’s invaluable contributions as we work to create a brighter future for women in sports.

“Through her persistence, keen insight and huge passion for the game, Kathy has driven volleyball forward throughout her entire career, and as an advisor, that experience, expertise and sage wisdom has helped us to shape LOVB’s vision to drive better life outcomes for women through the sport,” said Katlyn Gao, CEO and Founder of LOVB. “Kathy’s legacy is the opportunities resulting from this work, which will benefit volleyball players for generations to come.”