Graduating Student-Athlete Profile: Olivia Alessi

5/13/2024 3:00:00 PM

Leading up to Daemen University's commencement ceremonies this weekend, daemenwildcats.com is profiling several student-athletes who have completed their academic coursework and/or athletic eligibility.

After starting her career at Division I Duquesne University, Olivia Alessi found a home at Daemen where she became a major contributor to the Wildcats' success over the course of her three seasons with the program. A two-time All-East Coast Conference selection and the league's Co-Setter of the Year in 2022, Alessi racked up 2,032 assists and 609 digs in her Daemen career, all while helping the Wildcats to an overall record of 71-20, including an unblemished 34-0 mark in conference play. Alessi was a member of three conference championship teams, leading the team to three NCAA tournament berths, including runs to the Elite Eight in 2021 and the Sweet 16 in 2023.

OA: Bachelor's Degree in Psychology.
OA: My favorite memories from my experience as a student-athlete include earning our way to the Elite Eight in Tampa, but alos creating long-lasting relationships with teammates, coaches and staff at Daemen.
OA: When I arrived at Daemen, I was nervous to come into a small school with such a close-knit team and Athletics Department. But now, I know that this family aspect, of not only the volleyball team, but all of Athletics at Daemen is the biggest advantage. There was never a time where I felt alone or unsupported by my team or Athletics as a whole.
OA: The thing I will miss the most about Daemen is my teammates. I have created such amazing relationships with my teammates and I will miss being able to train, practice, play games and spend time with them every day.

OA: I would say my most meaningful accomplishments are when we won the East Region championship in 2021 and also when I received the ECC Co-Setter of the Year award.
OA: The most influential person during my years at Daemen was Stephanie Albano. While I only had her as a coach for one year, I have known her for much longer. Steph pushed me to the be the best I could be, both on and off the court, while simultaneously instilling confidence in me. She made me believe that I have the capability to accomplish everything I set out to.
OA: After graduation, I plan to work with The Champion Project, and I'll also be continuing to attend Daemen to earn a Master of Social Work Degree.
OA: To underclassmen and new recruits, cherish your time at Daemen as long as possible. It really does go by fast. You may dread the super early mornings and long bus trips in the moment, but these are the memories you will fondly look back on once you graduate. So, be present in every moment and always remember you get to be a collegiate athlete. Don't time a single minute for granted.

Daemen University features the premier NCAA Division II athletics program in the Buffalo-Niagara region, sponsoring 17 intercollegiate teams. For the latest information on Daemen Athletics, follow the Wildcats via social media on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram, or sign up to receive customizable news alerts, e-mail newsletters and weekly schedule alerts.

Follow the Daemen University women's volleyball program on Twitter and Instagram at @DaemenWVB.

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