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Exploring Indiana University Women’s Club Volleyball: Madi Graves and Lally Coleman Share Team Insights

Media Contacts
Olivia Weiss
Jordan Shane
Archie Messinger

BLOOMINGTON, Indiana (March 28, 2025) — Shining through the suffocating heat of the gym is the sound of volleyballs slapping off hands and the overall intensity that resonates in every corner. The sounds dominate the gym as players like Madi Graves and Lally Coleman move through every serve, their focus unwavering. In front of us, the view isn’t just practice—it’s where camaraderie and competition merge into a powerful force.

There was not a single second where you couldn’t hear a volleyball slap off a hand or hit the floor. Not a single moment when the obnoxious yellow of the gym wasn’t screaming in your eyes. Every serve mattered as Madi and Lally demonstrated leadership skills, setting an example for the less experienced players.

The Women’s Club Volleyball team at IU offers a unique balance of competition and social connection. It allows students to compete while maintaining a flexible schedule. The team is perfect for students looking for a rewarding university experience since it lets members create close bonds with only two weekly practices and three tournaments each semester.

That does not mean these athletes aren’t on their A game, however.

Madi Graves, one of the most experienced players, brings a wealth of knowledge to the court.

Madi’s parents played volleyball in high school, and her brothers play at the University of Pepperdine in Malibu. Her journey began in 7th grade when she played recreationally and gradually began toward competitive play in high school and club volleyball. “Volleyball just means a lot to my family; it always has.” She stated.

The practice felt like it ended as quickly as it sprung. The team only had two huddles and spent the whole time running through their maneuvers. Madi’s background in the sport, combined with the unique flexibility of the club team, makes it the perfect fit for her. “If it’s something you want to be a part of, it’s not something that requires complete dedication.” Madi notes. “It’s very lowkey.”

The key to the team’s success is the structure of the association. “When I decided to come to a big school and not pursue a Divison 1 career in athletics I wanted to just maybe tryout for the club volleyball team and just meet a couple new people…” Madi explains. “The number one benefit for me has been the people I’ve met. I met three of my closest friends through this team.”

While Mally’s journey was a smooth offshoot from her history in the sport, Lally Coleman found her own path through unexpected plans.

For Lally Coleman, a sophomore from Chicago, honing her volleyball skills has meant less to her than building the friendships that she has with the team. Initially, Lally was not too interested in trying out. “I was convinced to go try out just a couple of hours before I actually went to the gym, and I hadn’t touched a volleyball in a year,” she smiles. “I thought it would be a fun night of just getting some reps in after not playing for a while, but I ended up making the team—and I’m so grateful for all of the friendships that I made in the past two years.”

The friendships she’s formed have been the highlight of her experience. “It’s been such a great vibe.”

“I think Indiana has put in a great system to support the club teams,” Lally says. “I think we’re in the top 5 of all the club teams, so we get to pick a good early gym time and we get a decent budget.”

Outside of practice, the team hosts events like hotroom yoga and food pantry service, raising awareness for IU’s club sports.

Lally is grateful for the tools and assistance IU offers its club teams. “We compete for allocation points every semester.” The club also takes part in other service activities that promote support and fundraising for its initiatives.

The team is now preparing for the ultimate challenge: nationals in Phoenix, which explains the quick and intense practice session. “I’m so excited to compete at nationals with the team. We’re traveling with the men’s team, too, and we’re hoping to get some wins this year,” says Lally. Though the team didn’t travel to nationals last year, they are ready to face tougher competition and build on their momentum.

For Madi and Lally, the Women’s Club Volleyball team has been more than just an athletic outlet. It is an avenue for one’s passion to be shared amongst friends. As Madi reflects, “Such a unique opportunity that I wouldn’t have a chance to have if I didn’t try out that one day.”

Madi and Lally talk in depth about their experience on the Women’s Club Volleyball Team.

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