Former Bulldog Robyn Keune tells us about her life after Fresno State.
Oct. 22, 2012
By Kasandra Martinson
kasandralyn@gmail.com
GoBulldogs.com
FRESNO, Calif. - The Bulldogs honored their programs and traditions last Friday night. Many alumnae came back to the Save Mart Center to support the Bulldogs as they faced UNLV in a battle for first place in the Mountain West. GoBulldogs.com had the opportunity to catch-up with former Bulldogs Robyn Keune, who is now the head volleyball coach at Madera High School.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your experiences after your time at Fresno State?
A: I entered the Credential Program and got a job as a first grade teacher in Madera. I love it.
Q: How well did Fresno State prepare you for life after college, both as a person and as a coach?
A: College athletics is an experience that really helped to shape the person that I am today. I learned to persevere. I learned that attitude makes the difference. I learned to be mentally tough, even in the grimmest of situations, which has made a huge impact in my life. I try to instill the importance of perspective and mentality within my players.
Q: Have you always wanted to coach? What made you choose this path?
A: I don't know if I always wanted to coach ... I love the game and since I can no longer play coaching seems like a logical choice.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of coaching?
A: This is hard to put into words because there are so many pieces to the puzzle. I love to watch the growth, both as athletes and people. It's an awesome thing to witness.
Q: How is your team doing this season?
A: 18-10. We are young...so it's been a bit of a roller coaster. We're looking to get more consistent here in the final stretch.
Q: You aren't originally from the valley, what made you want to stay here?
A: Southern California is an expensive place to live! And, my family is here now. The friendships I formed in college have kept me around.
Q: Are you interested in moving on to the colligate level of coaching?
A: I would love to. I am incredibly competitive ... and sometimes it feels like the college level is where that would fit best.
Q: Do you stay in touch with any of your former teammates?
A: Facebook allows most of to keep up with each other. Only one is still here in town. We see each other often, we're workout buddies.
Q: How often do you come back and watch your alma mater play?
A: A lot more in the last 2 years ... I try to bring my high school kids out to watch once or twice a season.
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time away from coaching?
A: I love anything active, so long as it does NOT include the snow. Hiking, biking, skateboarding ... whatever gets me moving.
Q: What were some of your favorite things about Fresno State?
A: I lived for athletics ... the rest is kind of a blur. I loved playing and I am so fortunate to have had that experience in a city that rallies behind its athletic programs.
"Discover Fresno State Athletics!" -- Fresno State volleyball begins the second half of Mountain West play on the road against New Mexico on Oct. 27 at 6 p.m. Tune into the home of Fresno State volleyball, ESPN 790, for game day action.
