USA Volleyball Mourns the Loss of Marilyn McReavy Nolen, a 1968 U.S. Olympian
The volleyball community is deeply saddened by the passing of Marilyn McReavy Nolen, a prominent figure in the sport. McReavy Nolen, who represented the United States in the 1968 Olympic Games, passed away on April 13, 2023, at the age of 78 in Big Lake, Texas.
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A Legacy of Excellence
McReavy Nolen’s journey in volleyball began at Howard Junior College, where she honed her skills before graduating from Southwest Texas State University in 1966. She went on to make a significant impact in the sport, playing for the U.S. Women’s National Team from 1967 to 1975. Notable achievements include winning the gold medal at the 1967 Pan American Games in Winnipeg, Canada, and representing the United States in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City.
Fond Memories of the ’68 Olympics
In 2018, McReavy Nolen reminisced about her experience at the 1968 Olympics during a team reunion in Colorado Springs. She fondly recalled the vibrant atmosphere and the camaraderie among athletes from around the world. She also shared memories of exploring different cuisines and trading souvenirs with fellow competitors.
Pioneering Coach and Accomplished Athlete
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McReavy Nolen’s contributions extended beyond her playing career. She won two USA Volleyball women’s open national titles with E Pluribus Unum in 1972 and 1973. She was also a four-time All-American. In addition, she played a pivotal role in establishing the first U.S. Olympic national training center in Texas before its relocation to Colorado Springs.
Coaching Legacy and Milestones
While continuing to play, McReavy Nolen embarked on a remarkable coaching career at Sul Ross State University in Texas, where she helped establish the women’s volleyball program. She later coached at various universities, including New Mexico State, Utah State, Kentucky, Florida, North Florida, and Saint Louis. In 2002, she became the third NCAA Division I coach to reach 800 wins, ultimately accumulating 809 wins by the end of her coaching career.
Honors and Recognition
McReavy Nolen’s achievements have earned her a place in the USA Volleyball Hall of Fame. She received the All-Time Great Coach Award in 1996 and the James E. Coleman National Team Award in 2022. Moreover, she was recognized as a Distinguished Alumna by Texas State University and hailed as a Title IX Trailblazer by the Atlantic 10 Conference. She is also a member of the halls of fame of the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA), the Women’s Sports Foundation, Utah State, and Reagan County Athletics in Texas.
Celebrating a Life Dedicated to Volleyball
Beyond her accomplishments on the court, McReavy Nolen was known for her engaging presence as a speaker, trainer, and clinician. She leaves behind a loving family, including her husband, Rev. Randolph Nolen, and her sons, Travis and Ryan.
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A memorial service will be held on April 22, 2023, at 2 p.m. CDT at the First United Methodist Church in Big Lake, Texas.
FAQs
Who was Marilyn McReavy Nolen?
Marilyn McReavy Nolen was a highly accomplished volleyball player and coach. She represented the United States in the 1968 Olympic Games and won numerous accolades throughout her career, including two USA Volleyball women’s open national titles and induction into the USA Volleyball Hall of Fame.
What were Marilyn McReavy Nolen’s notable achievements?
McReavy Nolen won the gold medal at the 1967 Pan American Games and competed in the 1968 Olympic Games. She also had a successful coaching career, with over 800 wins and coaching stints at various universities.
What contributions did Marilyn McReavy Nolen make to the sport?
In addition to her playing and coaching accomplishments, McReavy Nolen played a crucial role in establishing the first U.S. Olympic national training center. Her dedication and impact on the sport have left a lasting legacy.
Summary
Marilyn McReavy Nolen, a celebrated figure in volleyball, passed away at the age of 78. As a player, she represented the United States in the 1968 Olympic Games and won various international medals. Her coaching career was equally impressive, with multiple national titles and over 800 wins. McReavy Nolen’s contributions to the sport will always be remembered.
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