30 for 30 Kim Morohunfola

During the 30^th anniversary of Coyote Athletics, 30 former student-athletes will be featured here at www.csusbathletics.com.

Coyote Hall of Famer Kim Morohunfola ranks among the all-time greats, not only in school history, but in the CCAA as well with her selection to the inaugural CCAA Hall of Fame established in 2014. "Kimo" led the Coyotes women's volleyball program to three CCAA titles in 2001, 2002, and 2003 as well as an NCAA West Region title and NCAA Final Four appearance in 2003.  The middle blocker became the first Coyote to earn AVCA National Player of the Year honors and became only the fourth player in her sport to earn All-America recognition all four seasons. She maintains an active role in her sports, coaching club in the Inland Empire when she is not working as a financial analyst with City of Industry-based Utility Trailer Manufacturing.
 
What facets of life that you learned playing for the Coyotes and coach Kim Cherniss continue to play a role in your professional life?
 
"Where do I begin? Being punctual is a big one. When I was a freshman, our team was told to be at the van at 4:15 and I was 12 seconds left. At our next practice, I had marble drills. That was the last I was late. Helping someone was another. There are times when people reach out to me, and I find a way to help instead of passing it along. I learned you don't push people aside. You work together.''
 
You served as a club coach for another Coyote great in Samantha Middleborn. How gratifying was it to play a role in her development as a volleyball player?
 
"Who would have known that Samantha would learn from me, and then to come to CSUSB and break all of my records? I'm so proud of what she did on the court, but also for her to earn her college degree and play professionally. I use Samantha as an example to my young athletes. I played a role in helping this girl who did not think she could go to college. Making a difference in her life is so rewarding and is the most important aspect of coaching.''