DiPaola Leads NAIA in Kills!

by Nick Lenz, Sports Anchor/Reporter
October 08, 2012 8:01 PM


To be number one, it takes committment and it takes hours of practice.

"I did sand this summer. I think that really helped. I can do a lot more cut shots, I can see the court, I can see the block and I think that's my main accomplishment this year," said Kristen DiPaola, Dakota State Volleyball.

In only her second year at Dakota State, Kristen DiPaola leads all of NAIA this season in kills with 473 and also kills per set with 5.2, racking up 964 career kills so far as a Trojan.

"You know, she's our big hitter obviously. She's ou go to player and it's really fun because a lot of times she just kind of takes over matches," said Amy Veenhof, Dakota State Volleyball Head Coach.

"It's so surreal to me. I still don't believe it. It's such an accomplishment like I said and I'm just so humbled to be leading. My team keeps me grounded and I honestly don't even think about it. I just go out there and play and have fun and if it happens, it happens," said DiPaola.

Becoming a quick leader on the court, helping bring her team to a new level.

"She's put in the effort and the time and she's getting a huge pay back for it so it's nice to see that," said Veenhof.

The Colorado native who moved to the Midwest to play the game she loves has some advice for young blockers, hitters and setters.

DiPaola said, "Always work hard and to work hard in everything you do. In practice, in workouts, in training."

With that advice, like Dipaola, you'll impress some coaches along the way.

"I mean it's just crazy how good she is. We really lucked out in getting her to come to Dakota State and play," said Veenhof.

Being an inspiration for many and showing that practice does pay off.