Bismarck State College's volleyball team has matched its win total from last year, with junior outside hitter Reese Duchsherer playing a pivotal role in the Mystics' improved performance in the Frontier Conference. KFYR reported that after what was described as a rocky start, the team is now demonstrating it is no longer the new kid on the block. Duchsherer, a former Legacy Sabers all-stater, leads the Mystics in nearly every major statistical category and ranks second in the Frontier Conference in kills, according to KFYR.
BSC Volleyball Head Coach Kyle Kuether told KFYR that Duchsherer "will be leading us for at least the first couple of years in the Frontier record books," anticipating her significant impact on the program's history. KFYR also reported that this strong performance comes despite Duchsherer's non-traditional path in volleyball. She mentioned to KFYR that her "whole volleyball career has been kind of switching around," a journey she has embraced despite the potential for discomfort.
Duchsherer was originally recruited as a setter, KFYR reported, but has transitioned to an outside hitter. In her current role, she is on pace to break Bismarck State’s all-time kills record. Her decision to attend Bismarck State College was influenced by its supportive environment and the opportunity to remain close to home. Duchsherer credited the coaching staff, telling KFYR they "made it an easy choice to come here," and emphasized her desire to stay local.
As one of several homegrown members on the team, Duchsherer’s versatility is a key asset, KFYR noted. Coach Kuether told KFYR that he likened her to a "beach player" because of her ability to "do everything," including passing, setting, receiving, serving, and hitting. Kuether added that the coaching staff "knew that whatever she really put her mind to, she was going to excel at."
This season, Duchsherer has expanded her role beyond just her play, stepping into a leadership position. She is helping guide Bismarck State as the team continues its climb within the Frontier Conference, contributing with both her on-court performance and her voice, KFYR reported. Duchsherer articulated her leadership approach to KFYR, explaining it involves "Being a voice on the team and encouraging people, and obviously just trying to lead by example and just being there for everybody."
Adding a personal touch to her current season, Duchsherer now wears number eight on the court, KFYR noted. This number carries family significance, as her mom and aunt also wore number eight during their own playing days. KFYR reported that this new number adds another layer to a legacy that could soon place her name prominently in Bismarck State's athletic history. Her consistent performance and leadership are key factors in the Mystics' current success and future prospects in the Frontier Conference.
