Nov. 29, 2012

MILWAUKEE - On the eve of her second NCAA Championship appearance, redshirt senior and All-BIG EAST First Team selection Holly Mertens has been an emotional rock on this year's record-breaking women's volleyball team. Persevering through a pair of serious knee injuries early in her collegiate career, Mertens' passion and intensity has been an inspiration to all affiliated with the program. 

Marquette Athletics' Meredith Vertin takes a look at the long journey traversed by the Stanley, Wis., native during her time in Blue and Gold.