AUGUSTA, GA - While Mikayla Kline's journey to Augusta University spanned just a few miles as she is from Evans, Georgia. But her journey to the volleyball court took a longer path. Kline played for Lakeside High School, but then stepped away from the sport for a few years.


 
Now a sophomore at AU, Kline was burned out and needed some time away from the sport she loved. Having graduated from high school in 2021, she stepped away from the game to focus on herself.
 
Kline did one year at AU, then took a gap year. Now, she's back and rejuvenated for the sport. Grabbing a spot on the team didn't come easy. She emailed coach Sharon Quarles and was offered a tryout. She was nervous and excited at the same time. Being out of shape during the workout didn't help matters. But when it was all said and done, she was offered a spot on the team.
 
"I was so excited," said Kline. "I had faith in myself and knew I could do it, and when she told me they were interested, I was just so excited."
 
Kline said she's "lucky and blessed" to be part of the squad since the recruitment portion happened in about a month. Now, in her second year with the Jaguars, she isn't overwhelmed as much anymore.
 
"I had a little bit of imposter syndrome the first year. But the girls have become my family, and I love them so much. To be part of a successful program, I feel very proud to be part of this program," said Kline.
 
Off the court, her college career has been an adventure. She really wasn't sure what she wanted to do. At first, she thought psychology and criminal justice, then it was neuroscience since she wanted to do something similar to criminal psychology. But she said it really wasn't meant to be.
 
Now, Kline is majoring in elementary education, a field that not only runs in the family, but she knows it's right for her.
 
"I'm just meant to be with kids because I love them," Kline said. "My mom and grandmother are both teachers, they've always done that. I kind of grew up with that mindset, and honestly being a nanny for a little girl for one year, made me realize how much I love young kids and being around them. I want to help them, and teach that next generation"  
 
Her schedule is rather busy right now balancing class work and volleyball. Being an athlete is very demanding. Kline wouldn't have it any other way.
 
"I actually do better when I'm busy," said Kline. "The busier I am, the better I do. I thrive when I have a set schedule and it's easier for me."