Chambana Sun

Illinois Volleyball has announced the addition of Kenna Phelan to its 2025 roster. Head Coach Chris Tamas shared the news on Friday afternoon, highlighting Phelan's past achievements and potential contributions to the team.

Kenna Phelan hails from Fayetteville, Arkansas, and began her collegiate volleyball career at Florida State University. During her time with the Seminoles, she played two seasons and contributed significantly to the team's success in reaching the NCAA tournament both years. In her freshman year, she was named to the ACC All-Freshman Team in 2023. As a sophomore, Phelan participated in all 31 matches and made 13 starts. She recorded 608 assists with an average of 5.20 assists per set.

Phelan achieved a season-best of 33 assists twice during her sophomore year against Clemson and Ole Miss. She also posted over 20 assists in twelve matches and recorded four double-doubles throughout the season. Her freshman year saw her playing in all 118 sets for FSU, accumulating 601 assists and achieving three double-doubles.

Before starting college, Phelan was recognized as a five-star recruit by vballrecruiter.com and earned titles such as Arkansas Gatorade Player of the Year in both 2021 and 2022. Her senior high school season included impressive statistics like delivering 217 kills, making 227 digs, and recording 977 assists.

Coach Chris Tamas expressed his enthusiasm about adding Phelan to Illinois Volleyball: "Kenna is a great leader with great hands and has the ability to run with tempo from just about anywhere. She has an excitement and enthusiasm for the game that will also help the winning culture of this team in the years ahead."

Phelan herself commented on her decision to join Illinois: "From my first phone call with Coach Tamas, I could tell there was something special about the Illinois program." She emphasized how she values being part of an environment where strong relationships exist between players and coaching staff.

The Fighting Illini look forward to welcoming Kenna Phelan into their ranks for future competitions.