LTC Honoring First Volleyball Team

Lincoln Trail College will celebrate a milestone in school history when it honors the first Lady Statesmen volleyball team during its home match against Rend Lake College on Oct. 20 at 6:30 p.m.

This season marks the 50th anniversary of women's athletics at LTC. The 1975 volleyball team was the first women's program in school history, paving the way for generations of female student-athletes. Volleyball was joined later that academic year by women's basketball, which began play in January 1976, and softball, which launched that spring.

"This is such a special year for Lincoln Trail College and for everyone who's been part of our women's athletics programs," said head volleyball coach Dana Goodwin. "We stand on the shoulders of the women who helped start it all. Honoring that first team reminds us where we came from and how far we've come."

In their inaugural 1975 season, the Lady Statesmen posted a combined varsity and B-team record of 8-3 under coach Dee Abrahamson. Team captains Vicki Gullett, Kathy Hoke, and P.K. Mehler led a group of athletes who were learning competitive volleyball for the first time. Players such as Dana Wells, Zelpha Clatfelter, Greta Hudson, Laronda Brush, Barb Wesner, Beth Lowe, Rose Napier, and Cheri Brimberry helped lay the foundation for decades of LTC volleyball success.

"They were trailblazers," said Goodwin. "At that time, women's sports were just beginning to take hold across the country, and these players jumped in with incredible spirit and determination. Their courage to compete opened the door for thousands of women who have come through our programs since."

Goodwin said recognizing the 1975 team is not only about celebrating a record but also about honoring the broader impact of women's athletics at Lincoln Trail College.

"Every time our athletes step onto the court, the field, or the diamond, they represent 50 years of growth, opportunity, and empowerment," she said. "That legacy continues today, and it's important for our current players to see the women who made it possible."

The celebration on Oct. 20 will include special recognition of the 1975 team members and a look back at the early years of volleyball at LTC.