Humboldt Grown: Lillian Rust-Kelley Balances Life, Learning, and Volleyball at CR

Published on Oct 17 2025

For College of the Redwoods volleyball player Lillian Rust-Kelley, the game began as a simple choice. “It was one of the two sports my small middle school offered,” she says. “So I thought I should give it a try.”

What started as curiosity quickly became passion. Growing up in Humboldt, Lillian found herself drawn not just to the energy of the game but to the community it created, something that continues to define her experience as a student-athlete at CR.

Today, Lillian plays outside hitter for the Redwoods, though she’s also stepped into the right-side position when the team has needed it. Her flexibility on the court mirrors the adaptability she’s learned as a student balancing early-morning practices, workouts, and classes.

“We practice from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., and some days we go straight into weights and study hall,” she explains. “It keeps us busy until late afternoon.”

It’s a demanding schedule, but Lillian approaches it with gratitude.

“On the hard days, I just remind myself what a privilege it is to be a student, let alone a student-athlete,” she says. “That perspective keeps me going.”

Her teammates and coaches have become a second family, one defined by trust, hard work, and laughter. Lillian describes the team’s culture as close-knit and supportive, something that was strengthened during a memorable weekend trip to Willow Creek.

“It was great team bonding and made us a lot closer,” she recalls. “Moments like that remind me why I love this sport.”

Outside of volleyball, Lillian enjoys the simple joys of Humboldt life, finding time to recharge around campus or exploring favorite local spots. Her calm, grounded nature is balanced by an inner drive that pushes her to make the most of every season.

Looking ahead, Lillian has her sights set beyond the court. After her time at CR, she hopes to enter the speech pathology program at Cal Poly Humboldt, combining her communication skills and compassion to help others.

To the next generation of student-athletes, she offers this heartfelt reminder:

“The time will go by fast,” she says. “Enjoy it, work hard, and appreciate every moment.”

As for the legacy she hopes to leave behind? Lillian smiles thoughtfully. “I hope people remember that I worked hard, stayed positive, and loved my team.”

Humboldt grown and Redwoods proud, Lillian Rust-Kelley continues to grow—one serve, one smile, and one step at a time.