​Building Champions On and Off the Court: Volleyball team continues to excel

At Fairmont State University, Day of Giving is more than a fundraiser – it’s a campus-wide catalyst for growth. For the Fighting Falcons volleyball program, the support received during this year’s event is especially impactful, fueling experiences that shape the lives of student-athletes both on and off the court.

In February, the volleyball program raised more than $15,000 during the Day of Giving event. 

These contributions provide meaningful experiences that extend far beyond training and matches. “The funds are huge for our program because they help us plan impactful opportunities for our student-athletes,” Coach Travis Hinkle shared.
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This year’s donations are being directed toward areas that elevate the team’s competitiveness and overall educational experience, including travel, equipment upgrades, and scholarship support. These investments not only enhance the day-to-day operations for the program but also ensure that each athlete has the resources they need to succeed.

One of the most exciting outcomes of this year’s Day of Giving is a team trip to San Antonio, Texas in September. Thanks to donor support, the team competed in a prestigious tournament hosted by St. Mary’s University, where they faced off against four of the top volleyball programs in the nation. “Donations were vital in helping cover the cost of flights and experiences during this trip. The student athletes created memories that will last a lifetime,”

Coach Hinkle emphasized. In addition to high-level competition, the team had the opportunity to explore the rich history and beauty of San Antonio, including a visit to the iconic Alamo. This kind of trip represents more than just another tournament – it’s a bonding experience, a learning opportunity, and a moment of pride for the athletes and the entire Fairmont State community.

Fairmont State Volleyball continues to raise the bar, athletically and academically. The team boasts a combined fall 2024 grade point average of 3.70, the highest in the athletic department, with athletes pursuing demanding majors like Nursing, Biology, Aviation, Business, Exercise Science, Education, Architecture, and Graphic Design.

Their work ethic and leadership extend into the community, too. The team has dedicated time to service initiatives both on campus and in the greater Fairmont area, including volunteer efforts at the Marion County Humane Society.

Competitive success is another point of pride:

• Five consecutive winning seasons
• On track to receive the American Volleyball Coaches Association Team Academic Award for the 10th year in a row
• Four All-Mountain East Conference Honorees
• Josie Skinn, Joey Borelle named First Team All-Atlantic Region, Honorable Mention All-Americans
• Baylie Ostvig named US Strength and Conditioning All-American

As Coach Hinkle and the team embark on the 2025/2026 season, they are determined to capture the Mountain East Conference North Division Title and return to the NCAA Tournament. With eight seniors preparing for their final season in Maroon and White, the team’s drive and unity have never been stronger.

To the donors who make these experiences possible, the message from Coach Hinkle and the team is simple and heartfelt: “We are so thankful for the love and support you provide in every way, from being in the stands at our matches to sending messages of luck or congratulations. We work so hard in everything we do, and we thank you for investing in us and giving opportunities for student-athletes to excel at their sport and their chosen fields of study. Thank you all for making us proud to be Fighting Falcons.”

To support the Fairmont State Volleyball Fall 2025 Fundraising Campaign, click the button below and make a gift by October 6, 2025.

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