Ryder Blackburn '24 Recruiting Profile

HI!! I'm Ryder Blackburn. I have been playing volleyball for over 7 years. My love for volleyball began one day in a park with my now stepfather and step sister who both already played - my stepfather was coaching his daughter at the time on a rec team. It was the day at the park when he discovered what he calls "my natural setting hands and soft touch." Although I didn't know at the time what it meant, now I am grateful that he showed me or I would not be where I am today - loving volleyball!

My ideal college going forward would have a campus with lots of people with good energy because I am a very social person and love to be around people. I am HUGE on school spirit and you can bet I will be at every sport and social event possible. 

My other loves are my family and friends. I love traveling with my family, especially to the beach on any coast. I love Rocky Point and Hilton Head. My mom says I am probably one of the most traveled kiddos she knows at my age because we traveled all over going on Disney Cruises starting when I was 4 years old.

I bring a lot of fun and energy to the court - just ask my teammates - that is the comment that seems to come from all of them whether I am playing competitively, or just for fun in the sand. Although I am very competitive and hard working, there is a silly side to me. I love having fun on the court too - I love to make people laugh and it is usually at the expense of myself.