CASPER, WY — Kelly Walsh High School’s standout senior volleyball player, Gia Ireland, officially signed a National Letter of Intent Thursday at a ceremony held on the high school campus. The signing marks her commitment to continue her athletic career at California State University‑Northridge (CSUN) in California.
Why CSUN felt like home
“It was just really a place where I could see myself fitting in,” Ireland said during the ceremony. “Their team is a family and that’s something that I really wanted.” The senior highlighted the program’s supportive culture as a key factor in her decision.
High‑school achievements
Throughout her time at Kelly Walsh, Ireland helped the Trojans secure their third consecutive WHSAA State Championship. She also played for the NORCO Volleyball Club, which captured the Girls Junior National Championship. Her performance earned her the Division 4A Best Player of the Year honor.
Coach praises leadership
Kelly Walsh head volleyball coach Jeff Barkell praised Ireland’s impact beyond the scoreboard. “She’s got really solid leadership skills and the ability to make people around her feel good about what they’re doing,” Barkell said. “She does a really good job of making everybody feel like they can play on her level. That’s just a pretty exceptional thing to have on a team.”
Early start and family influence
Ireland began playing volleyball competitively at age seven, growing up with a mother who played Division I volleyball in college. While she also participated in softball, basketball and gymnastics, she says volleyball allowed her to reach her full potential, teaching her resilience, teamwork and leadership.
Looking ahead at CSUN
At CSUN, Ireland hopes to develop further under new coaching styles and heightened competition. Academically, she plans to major in radiology, aiming to work in medicine and serve as a positive influence in people’s lives.
Community reaction
Friends, teammates and family gathered to celebrate the milestone, expressing confidence that Ireland will excel both on the court and in the classroom. “I just really love my years I spent here with everyone. It just feels super special to say that I was a Trojan,” she reflected.
Kelly Walsh’s volleyball program looks forward to building on its recent success while supporting the next generation of athletes, inspired by Ireland’s example of dedication and leadership.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
