Central College Athletics

Gracie Pierson
Lake City, Minnesota
Class of 2025

Why did you chose Central?

Central felt like home from the minute I stepped on campus. I was nervous going to a small school that I’d never heard of before, but knew I really wanted to play volleyball after high school. Pella also reminded me of home with having smaller community that felt more like a family. I love that professors, coaches and my teammates took the time to get to know me and knew I would get an education/college experience that was a perfect fit for me.

Favorite professor and why?

My favorite professor is Prof. Valster. I feel like the transition into college is very intimidating and she makes it go smoothly. Something I appreciate about her is the communication she gives her classes. It is always very clear when assignments are due and what the goal of the assignment/project is. She’s also always willing to meet with students, provide support and give advice.

You’re majoring in Kinesiology because? 

I LOVE learning about the human body. I always knew I wanted to go into the medical field and be a PA or doctor, but quickly realized chemistry and biology were not for me. (haha) The kinesiology department provides us with a variety of classes that cover so many different areas that I didn’t know existed before coming to Central. I also love how I can learn something in the classroom one day and immediately apply it into my own lifestyle.

Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?

I am currently one of the Athletic Training Chairman with Kinesiology Club that just recently started here on campus this past school year (YAY!). I love getting to work with the other Chairman and our President trying to come up with fun activities, having different speakers come in, and finding ways to help freshman feel more involved on campus.

Who are your go-to musical artists?

My playlist is quite literally all over the place but if I had to pick a few it’d have to be Post Malone, Luke Bryan or Noah Kahan. But you can never go wrong with some 90’s alternative rock.

How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?

I truly believe choosing Central was the right choice for me. The amount of support my teammates, coaches and professors provide is unmatched. It has taught me how to manage my time much better than in high school. My favorite thing about Central is every student here is motivated. Being on a campus filled with athletes who strive to be good within their sport and in the classroom is something that motivates me to keep going and change my best.

If you could speak another language, which would it be and why?

I would have to go with Spanish. During the summer/when I go home during the year, I work at a school back home with students who tend to struggle to understand or get their work done and I think being able to speak Spanish or even just multiple different languages would be just one extra thing I can use to create a stronger connection with them.

Which teammate should try out for American Ninja Warrior?

I think Landry Pacha would be good at American Ninja Warrior. She used to be a gymnast and always brings tons of energy.

What is your favorite smell in the world?

This might be a little weird, but I love the smell of like wood chip shavings and straw. Growing up my parents and I used to travel and show Holsteins and it reminds me of fair time, summer and spending time with our family friends.

If you could time travel, would you go to the past or future?

100% the past. I think technology is super beneficial in our lives, but from a social aspect I’d like to see how different everything would be and how much more engaged people are with each other.

Favorite TV Show

Either Grey’s Anatomy or Gilmore Girls. I enjoy shows that I don’t have to pay a ton of attention to because I get distracted very easily.

What’s it like to play for Coach Czipri?

It’s one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. My favorite part about Zip is she truly cares about you and sees you as more than an athlete. She cares so much about the mental health side of volleyball and has helped me with my metal game. It’s also so fun walking into the gym and looking at the practice plan to see what fun, new wacky drills she’s found that we get to try and experiment with.

What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central volleyball?

Hands down the support throughout the whole team. I loved coming into Central knowing I’d have a family and friends immediately without having to go through all the stress. My love for this team has grown exponentially throughout my time here.

What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?

I hope to be living back in my hometown or somewhere in Minnesota working as an Athletic Trainer and loving my job. My goal in life is to just be happy, healthy and content with a roof over my head, family and my dog Remi because I’m convinced she’s going to live forever.

Favorite food from Central Market

This is a tough one. I’m going to have to go with burrito bar or the chili lime salmon with wild rice and asparagus. Spaghetti has also forever been my favorite food, so I really look forward to pasta bar Sunday nights.

Bucket list

First I’d like to get over my fear of flying. But then I’d like to travel the world and try all the different foods and treats.