By Braeden Melton | Assistant Coach & Director of Volleyball Operations
We’re going to turn back the clock to catch up with a former Titan who continues to stay connected with our program. Larissa Brown (formerly Krumplitsch) was a middle blocker for UW-Oshkosh from 2009–2012 where she earned All-WIAC honors in 2012 and was a member of the 2009 Final Four team that went unbeaten in WIAC play and finished ranked third by the AVCA at 39–3.
She joins us each summer to help with our camp series and has served as a mentor figure for multiple players currently on the team. It was insightful to pick her brain about how the program has evolved over time from when she was a player to now.
Current job: School Social Worker
Favorite vacation spot: Hilton Head Island, SC
Favorite color: Blue
Favorite hobby: During this whole pandemic and safer at home order, my husband and I picked up woodworking. Now we are hooked and do it as a side gig!
Favorite volleyball memory: Honestly to pick one is just not fair! Probably winning the WIAC conference champion title on our home court, three years in a row. 3 peat baby!
Favorite quote: “We learn little from victory, much from defeat”
Best spot on UWO’s campus: Is Titan Underground still a thing? Man, I loved their mini corn dogs.
What were some of the factors that led you to UW-Oshkosh?
“If I knew anything at the age of 19 heading off to college, I knew I wanted to play volleyball. I toured many campuses and talked with quite a few different coaches. When I went to tour Oshkosh, there was such a strong sense of community. Not only with the volleyball program, but the university itself. I loved the location, being close to water, and that college town feel. Between location, and something about the coaches and players at that time, they helped assure me that Oshkosh was the right choice for me and I never thought twice!”
What was it like making the Final Four as a freshman?
“Unforgettable. I definitely remember the moment we learned John Carroll University was just close enough that we weren’t able to fly. So it was going to be one long road trip as a team full of excitement, butterflies, and little sleep! You learn quickly playing a team sport that the sport is so much bigger than yourself. However, being a freshman coming from a high school (that wasn’t so great at volleyball) to a college team ranked #1 in the country at times, that “bigger than me” moment was very eye opening. I learned so much from my upperclassmen on that team. They were some of the best role models and teammates I’ve ever had. They were the perfect example of hardworking, dedicated, and relentless. They helped me carry on those traits for the next 3 years of my volleyball career at UWO.”
Are there any life lessons that you learned during your time as a Titan?
“Phew, you’re getting deep! Yes, SO. MANY. LESSONS. But here’s just a few:
I think one of the biggest things I learned was what a strong work ethic entails. It’s not easy being a student athlete! You have to learn quickly how to balance school, athletics, and possibly a job. With all that comes time management and discipline. Those lessons right there give you a good resume builder for your future y’all!
A healthy lifestyle. I was in the best shape of my life when I was a student athlete at UWO. Man, those three-a-days can really kick your butt (so does Coach Brown)! Staying active, eating healthy, and caring for your body mentally & physically have become a top priority for me.
And finally, when you play for Oshkosh volleyball you gain another family. I can’t repeat this lesson enough. My teammates became my roommates, who became my best friends, who became my bridesmaids. I continue to stay in contact with those who were there during my time. So hold tight to that strong tradition Oshkosh has. Honestly, you can go play in a league, or a grass tournament, and have a UWO volleyball shirt on and a conversation will strike with an alumni who played in 1986!”
How does being an alum compare to being a player?
“Personally, I feel once you become an alum, you really get to appreciate and feel grateful for all you experienced when you were wearing that Titan jersey. I feel like when you’re a player you don’t really feel that overwhelming gratitude and appreciation. Only because you’re so in the moment of playing college ball. You’re having the best time of your life, playing the sport you love, with teammates who quickly feel like family. When that high is over, you get a second to look back and really appreciate all you had. I’m 8 years out of my college career, and I continue to find ways I can stay involved with this amazing program.”
What progress have you noticed the most in the program since you were wearing the jersey?
“Not only have I noticed it, but I hear about it from others in the surrounding community. Coach Ellmann, Koenig, Melton, Vara, and Brydon are creating a college volleyball culture unlike anything else. Playing under them you are among the most knowledgeable, passionate, and dedicated coaches UWO will see. The players coming in year after year, are stronger, more talented , and among the hardest working student athletes there are.”
Do you have any advice for our incoming freshman class?
“When you become a part of Oshkosh Volleyball, there is truly nothing like it. The culture this program creates is beyond words. Let every victory, setback, or defeat create an opportunity for you to learn and grow from. Also, there’s something to be said about loading onto the bus as a team, on a cool fall day, and preparing yourself for a night (or weekend) of great competition. Know that every time you get on that bus, and walk into a new gym as a Titan, you are guaranteed a chance to play high quality volleyball against some tough competition. There’s no such thing as a “cake walk” playing in this conference. Lastly, please beat Whitewater!”
Not everyone goes into coaching after they are done playing, so why did you decide to coach?
“Volleyball has naturally become a part of me. I love this sport. I’ve actually come full circle and I am coaching for the high school I played for! Who would have thought? As for coaching, I love teaching athletes and learning from them as well. It is rewarding watching the gains players make season after season. When you find a passion like that, you want to hold on it as long as possible, whether it’s through coaching, playing, or simply as a spectator!”
You’ve worked camps with us during the past few summers, what’s your favorite part about camp?
“Can I say learning from Coach Ellmann?! I just love being back on campus in Kolf with hundreds of athletes and coaches who are passionate about the sport. It’s such a fun experience when you’re a part of camps. They’re action packed, include lots of learning, and provide lots of opportunities for growth! I also love the award ceremony at the end of each camp. Seeing those campers’ faces light up in surprise, because yes, among hundreds of campers we noticed your hustle!”
Can you think of any role models that young female athletes should be looking up to?
“Your upperclassman, your teammates, coaches, parents etc. Honestly turn to those close to you helping you become the best version of yourself!”
With our season having been cancelled, is there anything that you’d like to share with the team?
“I can’t imagine the roller coaster of emotions you all are experiencing right now. However, I do know that because you are a part of Oshkosh Volleyball, you will be surrounded by love, comfort, and direction from the leaders you have in front of you. As I mentioned earlier, let every victory, setback, or defeat create an opportunity for you to learn and grow from.”
We love staying connected with our alumni, it bridges the gap between the Titans of old with the those who currently wear the jersey. It’s a great time to be a Titan. This one was fun, thanks, Lars!
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