As the 2024-25 school year comes to an end, we honor the senior athletes who have graduated from WSU and are leaving Pullman for bigger and better things. This is the 2024-25 Daily Evergreen senior athlete farewell series.

When it comes to Cougar volleyball, no name would be more familiar to fans than that of Katy Ryan.

Ryan, a senior, spent her whole collegiate career with the Cougars, where she became a standout member of the team and fan favorite.

The 6-foot-5 opposite hitter from Rathdrum, Idaho, capped off her illustrious volleyball career at Wazzu with a remarkable 2024 season. As a four-year starter and 2024 captain, Ryan’s leadership and performance were instrumental in guiding the Cougars to the sweet 16 in 2023, and their winning record in the WCC in 2024. 

In her final season, Ryan led WSU with 374 kills, averaging 3.34 kills per set, and contributed 92 total blocks, filling up the stat sheet in every game. Her consistent performance earned her a spot on the AVCA Northwest All-Region First Team and the All-WCC First Team.

Ryan reached a major milestone when she achieved her 1,000th career kill during a match against Pepperdine on October 6, 2024.

Ryan’s career statistics place her among WSU’s all-time greats. She concluded her tenure with 1,198 kills, ranking seventh in program history, and her .282 career hitting percentage is the sixth-best at WSU. Her 1,387 career points also rank seventh all-time for the Cougars.

Ryan’s final season showcased her ability to perform under pressure. In a match against Portland on November 16, 2024, she led the team with 10 kills and three blocks, contributing to a straight-sets victory. Her performance on Senior Day against LMU included 14 kills and seven blocks, underscoring her consistent impact throughout the season.

Katy Ryan’s legacy at WSU is marked by her exceptional athleticism, leadership, and commitment to excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the Cougars’ volleyball program.