Kyle Pietrzak: A Leader on and off the Volleyball Court

Kyle Pietrzak grew up with both his parents loving volleyball. Naturally, he gave the sport a try and loved it, and so his parents did everything in their power to push him toward his dream. Today, Pietrzak is living his dream as a member of the Bluefield University men’s volleyball team where he is valued not only on the court, but also off the court for his respect for others.

Coming from Chicago, Illinois, Pietrzak previously attended college in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for two years before coming to Bluefield.

“I previously attended Cardinal Stritch University before it closed down for good,” Pietrzak said, “so I came here.”

Despite the unexpected closure of his previous school, Pietrzak stayed focused and determined. He found a new home at Bluefield, where he continues to pursue his goals in both academics and athletics.

Now a senior at Bluefield balancing a sport with academics, he does not have much free time on his hands. In addition to men’s volleyball, he has several other responsibilities and roles around campus.

“I do not get much free time,” Pietrzak said. “I am an RA (resident advisor) on campus and the women’s volleyball assistant coach, so I run practices. And now, most of my free time is taken up for recruiting. I guess when I do have free time, I play video games.”

Becoming the assistant coach of the women’s volleyball team while still a student is no small feat. Pietrzak earned the opportunity through hard work, dedication, and leadership. He helps organize and run practices, works closely with players to develop their skills, and is also involved in recruiting future team members.

“My origins are that I have been playing for over 10 years,” Pietrzak explained. “Luckily, my parents were very big into volleyball. When I was younger, they got me into it and were my first coaches. I was influenced by my parents as well as my former coaches, current coaches, and teammates, now and in the past.”

Many people have helped shape Pietrzak’s volleyball journey, and he carries their influence with him into every team he joins and every role he takes on. When asked about his personal strengths, Pietrzak said, “My strengths are that I am responsible as well as being a good problem solver. I am also a good communicator, good organizer, and I am very dependable.”

These qualities have helped him both on and off the court. Whether in the classroom, the residence hall, or the gym, Pietrzak has proven himself a reliable and capable leader. He will earn his bachelor’s degree in sports management in May and complete his eligibility with men’s volleyball, but he’s not finished at BU.

“I will be getting my master’s here at Bluefield, be an RD (resident director), and a graduate assistant coach for men’s and women’s volleyball,” he shared.

With his character, skill set, and work ethic, Pietrzak is well prepared to take on the challenges ahead and to support others in doing the same. His journey is a testament to passion, persistence, and the impact of strong mentorship.

“Kyle is a great athlete, student, leader, and a force of nature,” said Keven John, head coach for the men’s volleyball team. “It is hard to deny his impact on our team and campus. We are blessed to have him here, and I have enjoyed being his coach.”