On February 9th, 2010, Senior Libero Katlyn Hudson, known as Kato to her teammates, decided to become a Murray State Racer for the next four years.

“I loved the Coach, I loved the program, I loved the campus,” Hudson exclaimed on her ride home from Murray, Kentucky.

Hudson is currently a two-year starter for the Hoosierland Spartans and has been the heart and soul of the team.

“There are tons of kids out there who can dig a ball. Watch this kid play, she brings presence, understands the game, helps the hitters, setters, and defense throughout the game. She’s just more than your ordinary defensive player,” said Spartan Coach Eugene Kim.

“She works hard, has the best court awareness, and she brings a positive attitude on the court. She’s the best libero I have ever played with,” added Senior Middle Hitter Emily Diedrich who is signed to play at the University of Southern Indiana.

Last week, while playing Celtic Force, Hudson ran a ball down in one corner, popped back up and ran down the ball in the opposite corner helping the team earn the point.

 “This kid will inspire you by the way she plays the game. It’s exciting and she really knows how to leave it all out there,” said Coach Kim.

“Kato is the type of player to bring life into the team. Everyone builds off her energy and she can turn a game completely around,” added Senior Middle Hitter Andrea Behling.

Playing with heart is one thing, but Hudson has also proved that she has the skills and talent to back it up.

Hudson, a four-year starter for Columbus East at the libero position is also the all-time digs leader with 1576 digs for the Olympians. At East, Hudson posted All Conference Honors her senior year and made the Honorable Mention list every year before that.

Hudson’s numbers steadily increased in digs during her four year career starting in 2006 – 318, 2007 – 322, 2008 – 407, and 2009 – 529. It was her 2009 effort that put her in the Top 5 of all defenders in Indiana by averaging 6.3 digs per game.

High School and Club teammate, setter Ellyn Jones had this to say about Kato, “She makes my job a lot easier because she’s so accurate and she makes the game fun to play. Did you know I’ve only played one year of volleyball without her? Crazy!”

Hudson began her road to a scholarship when she decided to play for Hoosierland her junior and senior years.

“Eugene is a very respected coach across the state and has coached girls to become great players. He has helped me tremendously throughout my journey,” said Hudson.

“There’s no doubt she’s going to have a successful career in college. A kid that’s willing to work that hard rarely fails. We’re all excited to see what she capable of doing and wish her the best,” said Coach Kim.

What her teammates had to say:

Junior Outside Hitter Alicia Gosney:

“She is a great libero and always puts forth an effort! She is full of energy on the court and I am glad she has been my libero for both club and school!”

Senior Middle Hitter Skylar Stephenson:

“Kato’s focus and energy bring a lot to the floor. She plays with heart all the time and never gives up on a play. She makes every game more fun and exciting.”

Junior Outside Hitter Alex Ludwig:

“She’s an extremely talented player with the drive to be a good teammate. She plays with smile on her face and is constantly picking the team up. She definitely deserves this.”