Wednesday, 4 Dec 2024

Retirement Series: Kim Hill

Over the next few months, we will be honoring athletes who have decided to retire from the U.S. National Team. In this edition, we celebrate the incredible career of Kim Hill, a two-time Olympian and Olympic medalist who made her mark in both indoor and beach volleyball.

Kim Hill’s journey with the U.S. Women’s National Team began in 2013 when she was “discovered” at the U.S. Women’s Open Tryout (now the U.S. Women’s National Team Open Program). She quickly proved herself and was named MVP of the 2014 FIVB World Championship, where the U.S. took home the gold medal.

Throughout her career, Kim Hill achieved numerous accolades, including winning bronze at the 2016 Olympic Games and gold at the 2020 Olympic Games. She also had success at the club level, winning the 2019 FIVB Club World Championship with Italy’s Imoco Volley Conegliano.

Retirement has brought about mixed feelings for Kim Hill. While she admits her body feels retired, she has been enjoying the newfound freedom and the opportunity to travel. It’s a strange and unfamiliar time for her, but she’s embracing it and figuring things out as she goes along.

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Looking back on her volleyball career, Kim Hill has exceeded her own expectations. She initially planned to play professionally overseas for a year or two before pursuing other interests. Little did she know that her career would take off and lead her to incredible experiences, including winning a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.

The sport of volleyball has given Kim Hill more than just achievements and success on the court. It has gifted her with lifelong friendships with people from all around the world. She cherishes the unique experiences, life skills, and the opportunity to travel and live in different countries that volleyball has provided.

While the grueling schedule of playing overseas in the winter and then representing the U.S. in the summer was challenging, Kim Hill has fond memories of being on a team and the camaraderie that comes with it. Winning championships and accolades stand out, but it’s also the small, everyday moments with teammates that hold a special place in her heart.

One pivotal moment in her career was being named MVP of the 2014 World Championship. It opened doors and changed the trajectory of her career. Kim Hill’s agent had struggled to find her a team, but the MVP title brought her the recognition and opportunities she deserved.

Off the court, some of Kim Hill’s favorite memories include the fun and camaraderie during the VNL in Rimini and the moments shared with her Italian club team during bus rides and casual weekend trips.

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Kim Hill credits USA Volleyball for her success. She owes her career to the organization, as she was discovered at the Women’s National Team Open tryout. USA Volleyball played a crucial role in developing her skills, promoting her name, and helping her secure contracts overseas.

As for her plans in retirement, Kim Hill is unsure of what the future holds. However, she is certain that volleyball will always be a part of her life in some way or another.


FAQs

Q: How did Kim Hill’s volleyball career begin?

A: Kim Hill’s volleyball career took off when she was discovered at the U.S. Women’s Open Tryout, now known as the U.S. Women’s National Team Open Program. She joined the U.S. Women’s National Team in 2013 and went on to achieve great success in the sport.

Q: What are Kim Hill’s career highlights?

A: Kim Hill’s career highlights include winning gold at the 2020 Olympic Games, bronze at the 2016 Olympic Games, and being named MVP of the 2014 FIVB World Championship. She also won the 2019 FIVB Club World Championship with Italy’s Imoco Volley Conegliano.

Q: How has retirement been for Kim Hill?

A: Retirement has been a mixed experience for Kim Hill. While she feels retired in terms of her physical condition, she is enjoying the freedom and the opportunity to travel. It’s a new and unfamiliar phase of life for her, but she is adapting and embracing it.

Summary

Kim Hill’s retirement marks the end of an incredible volleyball career that spanned both indoor and beach volleyball. From being discovered at the U.S. Women’s Open Tryout to becoming a two-time Olympian and Olympic medalist, Kim Hill has achieved more than she initially planned. Her journey has taken her to championships, MVP titles, and unforgettable experiences around the world. As she settles into retirement, Kim Hill’s love for volleyball remains, and she looks forward to the next chapter in her life, knowing that the sport will always be a part of her. For more information about Kim Hill and her retirement, visit Alpinetgheep.com.

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