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Women's Volleyball NWC Athletic Communications

Blocking Her Way Into History: Metzger’s Pursuit of Excellence and a National Title”

ORANGE CITY, Iowa – Zavyr Metzger's journey as an athlete at Northwestern College is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. 

Throughout her career, she has set records, transitioned from a mentee to a mentor, and played a pivotal role in the team's success.

As she reflects on her time at Northwestern, Metzger shares her experiences, challenges, and the hunger for a national title that drives her and her teammates.

SETTING RECORDS
Metzger's journey at Northwestern College has been nothing short of remarkable. She recently set the single-season blocks record, a goal she and her teammates had set at the beginning of the season.

"It felt special to reach that in the pool play round of the tournament," she said. "It was a good experience. All my teammates are amazing and uplifting."

The achievement was not just a personal milestone for Metzger but also a testament to the strength and unity of the team.

FROM MENTEE TO MENTOR
Metzger's freshman season was a period of learning and growth. She embraced her role on the practice squad and absorbed as much knowledge as she could from the upperclassmen.

"I was on the varsity practice squad, getting those reps constantly, even though I wasn't in the game," Metzger reflects. "It really helped me become a better blocker."

As she transitioned from a mentee to a mentor, Metzger found joy in helping shape the next generation of middle blockers.

"It has been special forming a relationship with the other middles," she said.  "I always felt like the younger underclassman earlier in my career, but it's been fun to help change the name of middle blockers and set this expectation for everyone."

THE ART OF THE BLOCK
Blocking is an art that requires timing, anticipation, and countless live reps. Metzger acknowledges the challenges she faced early in the season and how they motivated her to improve.

"My block was a little slower when we were facing those top-10 teams," she said. "It made me realize I needed to be quicker going laterally."

The adjustments paid off, and Metzger's blocking became a crucial component of the team's success.

MORE THAN DEFENSE
While Metzger is known for her blocking prowess, she has also become an integral part of the team's offensive strategy. This season, the team made a conscious effort to involve the middle more in the offense.

"We have to transition faster this year because we're in that offense now," Metzger explained. "We're practicing, running the middles from different tempos, and different places on the court. It's been a lot of fun."

The strategic adjustments allowed Metzger and her fellow middle blockers to contribute more offensively, creating a well-rounded and dynamic team.

HUNGRY FOR A TITLE
As a senior, Metzger has experienced the highs and lows of a season. She vividly recalls the team's run to the national championship game in her sophomore year and the hunger it ignited within her.

"I was excited for the pool play game last Wednesday," Metzger said. "I was pumped up from the second I woke up in the morning. These types of moments are what fuel me as an athlete."

Metzger's hunger for a national title is shared by her teammates, and they are determined to give it their all in pursuit of that ultimate goal.

A SPECIAL BOND
What sets this year's team apart for Metzger is the unique bond they share. Despite early-season losses, the team remained united and focused on their goals.

"We have so much trust in each other," Metzger said. "I think that's allowed me as a senior to play super free and uplift the younger underclassmen."

The trust and belief in one another have propelled the team to new heights, and Metzger is grateful for the opportunity to finish her career with such a special group of athletes. 

As Metzger closes out her career at Northwestern, she leaves behind a legacy of hard work, determination, and a relentless pursuit of success.

Her journey from a freshman on the practice squad to a record-setting middle blocker and mentor is a testament to the power of perseverance and teamwork.

With her hunger for a national title and the unique bond within the team, Metzger and her teammates are ready to make their mark on the national stage.
Don't forget to follow Northwestern College Athletics on Facebook @nwcraiders, Twitter @nwcraiders, and Instagram @nwcraiders! #RaidersStandOut
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Players Mentioned

Zavyr Metzger

#10 Zavyr Metzger

MH
6' 1"
Senior

Players Mentioned

Zavyr Metzger

#10 Zavyr Metzger

6' 1"
Senior
MH