From Injury to Triumph: An Athlete’s Journey

January 31, 2025

For many athletes, sports aren’t just a pastime—they’re a way of life. This was especially true for Kaya, whose love for volleyball shaped her from childhood. Raised alongside two older siblings who played sports, she picked up her first volleyball at the age of seven and never looked back. School dances and birthday parties were exchanged for countless hours in the gym, and every sacrifice made was for one purpose: to become the best volleyball player she could be. 

“I wouldn’t be playing at the level I am today without my love for the game,” Kaya said. “It’s a huge part of who I am as a person.” 

However, her journey wasn’t without challenges. Kaya transferred from Samford University in January 2023. While settling into a new university and reconnecting with her passion for volleyball, Kaya suffered a devastating labrum tear. Suddenly, the sport that defined her identity seemed out of reach. 

“My mental health definitely declined after my shoulder injury. I felt like I was failing not only myself but my team,” she shared. “I knew it was out of my control, but I really struggled to figure out who I was without volleyball.” 

In these moments of doubt during her three-month long recovery, Kaya leaned on Michigan State’s support system. Through the encouragement of her coaches, teammates, and the medical professionals at MSU Health Care Sports Medicine, she began to rebuild both physically and mentally. Over time, she discovered a deeper strength—one she didn’t realize she had. 

"I’m actually grateful for my injury because it made me so much stronger, both as a player and as a person." 

A significant part of her recovery journey was her experience with primary care sports medicine doctor, Jill Moschelli, MD, of MSU Health Care Sports Medicine. From their very first appointment, Dr. Moschelli provided a sense of comfort and reassurance. 

“She made me feel so heard. She answered every question in a way I could understand and helped me feel confident that everything was going to be okay,” said Kaya. “Surgery is never easy—especially for an athlete—but Dr. Moschelli gave me the information I needed to make the right decision about my health.” 

In April 2023, she underwent surgery, marking the start of her comeback. With determination, she began rehabilitation in Georgia and, just three months later, started her return to play. By early August, she was fully cleared to participate without restrictions, just in time for preseason. 

Her story is more than one of recovery—it’s a testament to resilience. The emotional toll of injury can be just as significant as the physical, but with the right support and care, Kaya found her way back to the game she loves and says she emerged stronger than ever. 

“I’m not the same player I was before the injury—I’m better. And I owe a huge part of that to the support I’ve received here at MSU, especially from Dr. Moschelli and the MSU Health Care Sports Medicine team.” 

As the official medical provider of MSU Student Athletes, MSU Health Care Sports Medicine provides more than just healing physical injuries, but supporting the whole individual. We’re committed to empowering our athletic community to come back stronger—on and off the field. Kaya’s journey reminds us all that challenges don’t define us; it’s how we rise from them that shapes who we become.