Creighton Volleyball Stars’ Emotional Farewell Notes Highlight Kirsten Bernthal Booth’s Coaching Standards

Back early this month, the Penn State women’s volleyball team was on fire and wrote history! The Nittany Lions then headed to the NCAA semifinals for the 14th time in the program’s history after a nail-biting 3-2 win against second-seeded Creighton volleyball. Rec Hall in University Park was packed to the rafters as Penn State battled till the last point to secure its first final-four spot since 2017 with a 3-2 (25-15, 16-25, 25-22, 20-25, 15-7) win. Creighton brought their best—Norah Sis set the tone of the first set with an energetic six-point burst, and Maddy Bilinovic sealed the final point with an ace.

In the fourth set, Creighton’s Jaya Johnson and Elise Goetzinger combined for key kills, and Bilinovic continued to serve aggressively. However, having proven through grit and rallying spirit, Penn State overshadowed their opponent while leaving fans stunned. Across the net, feelings were high for the Creighton seniors as they played their last matches for their college teams. But now, the Creighton volleyball seniors’ final messages prove just how incredible Kirsten Bernthal Booth’s coaching energies are!

Maddy Bilinovic, one of the seniors, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt post and tribute to Creighton volleyball as she bids farewell to the program. She shared a few pictures from games, some with her teammates, and a special shot with Coach Kirsten Bernthal Booth. Her caption read, “My collegiate volleyball career has come to an end. I can confidently look back at this last season with @creightonvb and say I have no regrets. To be lucky enough to play for this coaching staff and alongside the most amazing women is something I will never forget. To be lucky enough to have this fifth year at Creighton University where I fell back in love with the game is something I will forever be grateful for…. #22 signing off. And it’s Roll Damn Jays forever.” 

Elise Goetzinger also shared a heartfelt montage on Instagram featuring moments from her journey with Creighton Volleyball. She began by reflecting on her struggles a year ago, admitting that she wasn’t sure if continuing to play was the right decision. The balance between academics and athletics had left her feeling mentally drained and burnt out. “Going to practice felt more like a chore than the joy it used to bring,” Elise shared, recognizing how difficult it had become to maintain her passion for the game.

Despite her doubts, Creighton took a chance on her, welcoming her with open arms in the spring. Her coaches and teammates stood by her side, offering the support she needed to rebuild her love for the sport. “My coaches and teammates stood by me, filling my cup until I was in a place to fill theirs back,” Elise reflected, appreciating their patience and understanding throughout her journey. She continued, “You have built this culture brick by brick from the ground up. I am honored that I get to be a Creighton alumni.”

So it is clear that Creighton Volleyball’s coaching staff has played a huge role in shaping the success of these athletes, and as coach, Kirsten Bernthal Booth says, “Well, I’m a believer there’s lots of ways to train, there’s lots of ways to coach. What I don’t like is when people think the way they’re doing it is the only way it can be done.” She highlights how different approaches can lead to success in an interview with VolleyBrains.com way back in July 2023. “I can train someone’s blocking footwork and they can be successful. And then you can come in and train a totally different way and they can be successful,” she explains, illustrating how flexibility and understanding are crucial.

Coach Booth also touched on the importance of consistency, regardless of personality differences. “If I go into the gym this afternoon at practice and suddenly start attacking a kid,” she continues, “But maybe our basketball coach could do that any day of the week. Because his players know that’s how he communicates. It’s totally different.” She believes that players thrive when they understand their coach’s approach, even if it varies. And as these seniors graduate, Coach Booth has reflected on them with a heartfelt description that’s bound to touch anyone’s heart.

Creighton Volleyball’s coach gets emotional!

In the press conference following the match against Penn, the Creighton volleyball team had one of the most emotional meetings that could be imagined. The team had a great chance of winning the national title but fell short. Even the team’s coach, Kirsten Bernthal Booth, looked emotional and was at a loss for words to describe her impressions of the senior group. “It’s hard for me to put into words with these two and our senior group. God, they’re just… the best women. They are selfless,” she said, her voice shaking.

Booth’s emotional tribute touched everyone present, left fans in awe. “This is so heartbreaking and beautiful to watch at the same time! What a brilliant coach Booth is, love it,” one fan wrote, sharing the moment on social media. Booth didn’t stop there. She continued to reflect on her seniors, emphasizing their impact beyond the court. “I mean, I love them like my daughters,” she added softly. Her words resonated deeply, as it was clear how much these players meant to her.

Wrapping up her thoughts, Coach Booth expressed regret about not having more time with this special group. “We talk about what’s wrong with college athletics. These guys are what’s right about college athletics. They’re student-athletes. They’re wonderful humans. I’m just sad I didn’t get to coach them and the other seniors longer,” she said with a bittersweet smile, showing the lasting impact her players had on her.