GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Thursday night West Michigan sports fans got their first look at the area's newest professional team, the Grand Rapids Rise Volleyball Club.
"We've been building this for a very long time and having the team come in and start getting to work, it's been amazing," said the team's Head Coach Cathy George. "I really have enjoyed the way the team has just taken to each other."
George explained that so far the team has only had two days of practices, but they're already seeing themselves grow.
George added that the team has also enjoyed interacting with the community. Which is exactly what they did Thursday night when the team held an event at Van Andel Arena where people could come and meet them.
Alyssa Jensen, the team's middle blocker, said one thing she liked about the event was putting volleyball on the map more.
"Letting these girls see that they have an avenue after college," she said. "I have a daughter myself so (volleyball) is an option for her too when she grows up."
The team's setter, Sarah Sponcil, also felt excited about what they're starting here in West Michigan.
"When I was ending my college career I really didn't want to go overseas and play and being away from family for nine months," said Sponcil.
Sponcil also reflected on how close the team has already become, saying she has 15 new friends.
The team will be taking that bond to the court as their season opens at Van Andel Arena on January 25 against Columbus.
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Watch 13 ON YOUR SIDE for free on Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and on your phone.