Natalie Gillen '24 Recruiting Profile

My name is Natalie Gillen, and I am a starting rotation 6-2 Opposite hitter, Setter for the class of 2024. My goal is to play competitive volleyball in college while attaining a degree in my chosen field. I have played JO volleyball for 6 years. Each year I learn more about myself as a player and that makes a positive impact on me as a person.  

I was exposed to volleyball at a young age through my parents, who played competitively in school and club, as well as, in sand leagues.  I started out playing recreationally as I was initially focused on competitive traveling basketball. I found over time that my passion for basketball did not match my passion for volleyball and made the decision to dedicate my time and effort solely to volleyball. When I step into the gym, I give it my full effort and attention to not only focus on improving my skills and volleyball IQ, but also to push my teammates to be the best they can be. As an Opposite Hitter / Setter, I focus on our strategy on the court and encourage my teammates.  I am a well-rounded volleyball player having played Middle Hitter until finding my true passion as a Opposite Side Hitter/ Setter 

I am able to play all around in a 6-2 or as the Setter or Opposite Hitter in a 5-1.  I have also played a 5-2 as the front row Setter.
I have worked hard to become a multi-faceted player and one that coaches can depend on as a leader on the court. I have played in a variety of roles as a starter in both Club and High School and embrace whatever position or role my Coaches need me for. 

For the past six years I have been playing JO Club volleyball, most recently playing the last 3 club seasons for nationally ranked club Mizuno Northern Lights where I have played in several Qualifiers and Open Division play. In 2022 season, my team placed second at the Mizuno Northern Lights National Qualifier in Minneapolis to earn a bid for GNJC Nationals in Indianapolis. My 2023 season for year for club, I was recruited to play on the 18-1 team at Impact Volleyball and was the starting Opposite Hitter / Setter.

This season I am looking forward to playing for Minnesota Select on the 18-3 as an Opposite Hitter/Setter.

For my high school career, I was starting Setter and Opposite hitter in a 6-2 rotation or 5-1 and am on both Varsity and JV teams. For the 2022 Season, Varsity finished 3rd at State, Conference Champions and Section Champions. Our JV team finished as Conference Champions as well. We were ranked #4 in the preseason USA Today AVCA regional rankings list. During the 2021 season, we finished 2nd at State, Conference Champions and Section Champions. 

During the 2021 season, I was the starting Opposite Hitter on the JV team.  I was also the starting Setter and Opposite hitter during 2019 season 9th Grade team as an 8th Grader, starting Setter and Opposite hitter for the 2020 season on the Bsquad team as a Freshman at East Ridge High School in Minnesota.

I have attended various setting camps including Mizuno Northern Lights with Cathy Noth and Dennis Amundsen, as well as, Hugh McCutcheon Gopher Camp. Aside from focusing on setting, I continue to work on both hitting and passing at skills camps and private lessons. 

I am searching for a college that produces a high level volleyball program that is known for their competitive play and one with a positive culture. The college will also offer me an opportunity to pursue academic excellence. I am a well rounded student that is in her Junior year of high school. I love competition but also take great pride in being a good student. I like the challenge that academics provides me and have a desire to focus on math, physical therapy or psychology programs.  I work hard, play hard, and study hard.