University of Minnesota Athletics
Gophers in the Pros: Lauren Gibbemeyer
3/9/2020 12:03:00 PM | Volleyball, M Club
Former Gopher great Lauren Gibbemeyer is currently playing professional volleyball in Turkey. Now in her second season with Eczacibasi VitrA, she has competed in professional volleyball since she's graduated the University of Minnesota. Gibbemeyer played for the Gophers from 2007-2010. During her four-year career, the former All-American hit .336 and still holds the school record for total blocks with 591. Read more on Gibbemeyer's time in Turkey, what's up next for her and how the current Gophers can use the spring season to build for next year.
You're in your second year with your team in Turkey. How was your second year with the team compared to your first?
"Coming back to the same team is definitely easier in terms of comfort and familiarity, but with that, there are also higher expectations. My second season has been a huge upgrade for me as I have my boyfriend and dog here with me to help me feel more at home. I also really enjoy playing with my teammates both new and from last year!"
Tell us about your current team and how the season is going so far?
"My club is Eczacibasi VitrA and we are currently in second place in the Turkish league and in the quarter finals for Champions League. We have had a lot of injuries and adversity this season but we have been able to still be very successful."
You've been playing professional volleyball since you graduated, what has been the biggest challenge you've encountered in your career?
"Over all of my years of playing professionally overseas, the biggest challenges I experienced was losing a grandparent two seasons in a row without being able to be home with my family. The pain and heartbreak was unlike anything I experienced before, but I it helps to know that my family always supports me and my situation."
Our Gophers are competing in the spring season now. What's some of your favorite memories or what did you take away from the spring season that still applies now?
"Looking back at my spring seasons as a Gopher, I remember the tough workouts and pushing myself past my limits. The importance of working in the "off season" is so crucial to the success and physical health during the in season. I took away the concept of "putting on armor" during the off season and knowing that this work is actually prepping me to be my best when it's game time."
What's next for you after you've completed the pro season?
"After this season, I plan on taking care of some physical issues I've been dealing with and will need ample time for that! I'll then spend the rest of the summer house hunting and prepping for another season if I still want to pursue that!"
You're in your second year with your team in Turkey. How was your second year with the team compared to your first?
"Coming back to the same team is definitely easier in terms of comfort and familiarity, but with that, there are also higher expectations. My second season has been a huge upgrade for me as I have my boyfriend and dog here with me to help me feel more at home. I also really enjoy playing with my teammates both new and from last year!"
Tell us about your current team and how the season is going so far?
"My club is Eczacibasi VitrA and we are currently in second place in the Turkish league and in the quarter finals for Champions League. We have had a lot of injuries and adversity this season but we have been able to still be very successful."
You've been playing professional volleyball since you graduated, what has been the biggest challenge you've encountered in your career?
"Over all of my years of playing professionally overseas, the biggest challenges I experienced was losing a grandparent two seasons in a row without being able to be home with my family. The pain and heartbreak was unlike anything I experienced before, but I it helps to know that my family always supports me and my situation."
Our Gophers are competing in the spring season now. What's some of your favorite memories or what did you take away from the spring season that still applies now?
"Looking back at my spring seasons as a Gopher, I remember the tough workouts and pushing myself past my limits. The importance of working in the "off season" is so crucial to the success and physical health during the in season. I took away the concept of "putting on armor" during the off season and knowing that this work is actually prepping me to be my best when it's game time."
What's next for you after you've completed the pro season?
"After this season, I plan on taking care of some physical issues I've been dealing with and will need ample time for that! I'll then spend the rest of the summer house hunting and prepping for another season if I still want to pursue that!"
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