WINFIELD, Kan. — For Southwestern College freshman libero
Brooklyn Milleson, volleyball is more than just a sport. It is an opportunity to grow as an athlete, excel academically and build lasting relationships along the way.
A native of Wichita, Kansas, Milleson's journey to Southwestern began with encouragement from her stepfather, who previously attended the college. After learning about Southwestern's full-tuition scholarship opportunity, Milleson decided to apply, eventually connecting with the volleyball coaching staff and receiving an offer to continue her athletic career as a Moundbuilder.
Milleson's passion for volleyball began in elementary school when her physical education teacher encouraged her to join a club team. By seventh grade, she had fully embraced the sport, initially playing setter before transitioning to libero. Throughout her volleyball journey, Milleson credits her parents for being her biggest supporters and motivating her to continue improving.
"They have continued to push me to be better and to not give up when things are hard," Milleson said. "Without them, I wouldn't have even considered playing college volleyball."
Some of her favorite memories include helping her high school volleyball team reach the state tournament twice. Since arriving at Southwestern, she has also enjoyed the experiences that come with collegiate athletics, particularly the charter bus rides to tournaments and the friendships she has developed with her teammates. While Milleson brings determination and energy to the court, she recognizes that volleyball requires just as much mental toughness as physical ability.
"The most challenging part of being a volleyball player is the mental aspect," Milleson said. "As much as it seems physical, volleyball is all mental."
She believes confidence, resilience and the ability to respond to mistakes are essential to success. When facing difficult moments during competition, Milleson relies on her teammates for encouragement while reminding herself of the responsibility she has to the team. Before matches, Milleson prepares by listening to upbeat music, talking with teammates and keeping the atmosphere light. She can often be found singing or dancing during warmups to help manage nerves and stay relaxed.
Her competitive mindset is inspired by two accomplished athletes, Kobe Bryant and Serena Williams, whose determination and relentless pursuit of excellence reflect the mentality she hopes to bring to her own athletic career. Off the court, Milleson is equally committed to her academic success. A health science major, she is an Honors Scholar who placed among the top five in Southwestern's scholar competition. Coming from a family with strong ties to the medical field, Milleson hopes to pursue a career as a physician assistant or pediatric oncologist.
"My grandma, mom, and stepdad are all in the medical field," Milleson said. "It was almost predestined."
Her interest in medicine is also influenced by her love for working with children, making pediatric care a potential career path. Balancing the responsibilities of being a student-athlete can be demanding, but Milleson credits her teammates and roommate for helping her navigate the challenges. With her roommate also enrolled in the honors program, the two are able to study together, exchange ideas and support each other academically.
Outside of volleyball and academics, Milleson enjoys spending time with friends, shopping and going on walks. As the oldest of seven children, she values family and the relationships she builds with others. She also has a playful side that might surprise those who only know her from the volleyball court. Among her hidden talents is her ability to do the worm, and she jokes that she can sleep through almost anything.
Her favorite television show is "Criminal Minds," while "That's My Boy" and "Rio" rank among her favorite movies. If given the opportunity to travel anywhere, she would choose Greece for its scenery or Rio de Janeiro because of her love for the animated film. As Milleson freshman season has come to a end at Southwestern, she is looking to remains focused on developing her skills, supporting her teammates and making the most of her of her collegiate experience as she looks forward to next season.
Although she knows her competitive volleyball career will eventually come to an end, Milleson has already established goals that extend far beyond the court. She plans to continue her education in medicine, with hopes of making a difference in the lives of others. For Milleson, success is not defined solely by what she accomplishes in volleyball, but also by the opportunities she creates for herself through hard work, perseverance and dedication. Whether diving for a ball on the court or pursuing excellence in the classroom, Milleson is determined to make every opportunity count as a Southwestern College Moundbuilder.
