The Colorado Women’s Volleyball team has welcomed two new players for the 2026 spring season. As part of efforts to introduce the newcomers, the team launched a Volleyball Spotlight Series. The first athlete featured is Kensley Hennessy, a freshman middle blocker.
Hennessy began playing volleyball as a high school freshman and credits her mother, who played in college, as her inspiration for joining the sport. When asked about her decision to join the University of Colorado (CU), Hennessy said, “I chose CU because of the facilities, the coaches, staff, the location, obviously, is beautiful, and it was just the best opportunity for me. I love it so far.”
Having moved from San Diego to Boulder, Hennessy noted that experiencing different weather and adapting to college routines have been highlights of her transition. “I’m from San Diego, so the weather is definitely fun – having seasons and [how] it can be cold. I’ve also just loved getting into a routine and learning about the program, learning about school, and enjoying college life. I like it better than high school,” she said.
Looking ahead to her first spring season with Colorado Volleyball, Hennessy expressed enthusiasm for developing her skills: “I’m excited to get stronger, get better in the gym, jump higher, work harder, and be ready for fall.” She added that she looks forward to conference play and potentially competing in tournaments during the fall season.
Reflecting on her position as a middle blocker, Hennessy admitted it took time to appreciate its demands but now enjoys its challenges: “It took me a while to like being a middle blocker. Most people hate it when you first start it because you feel like you’re always in the way. But I love running slides, and I love being able to kind of be everywhere, walking and running around.”
Hennessy is majoring in integrative physiology with plans to remain involved in sports after graduation without pursuing medical school. “I really want to stay in sports, and I’ve always wanted to be in the medical field, but I don’t want to go through medical school. So I think I want to be like medical sales or PT. Just stay working with athletes,” she explained.
Before taking up volleyball late in high school, Hennessy spent much of her youth riding horses competitively across the West Coast—a passion shared with her grandmother: “I grew up riding. I started when I was three. I’ve showed pretty much all over the West Coast…My grandma loves horses…We would road trip all over together…I still have a horse. I still ride whenever I can.”
Hennessy concluded by expressing anticipation for this new phase: “I’m excited for this new experience and new part of my life!”
For more information on Colorado volleyball or updates on team activities and schedules visit cubuffs.com/vb.
