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Kansas State Volleyball Star Steps Away from Sport to Prioritize Mental Health

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 1:16 GMT by profootballnetwork.com

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Beyond the Court: Kansas State Volleyball Star Shaylee Myers Chooses Mental Health Over Competition

The world of elite athletics often demands unwavering dedication and sacrifice. But what happens when that relentless pursuit takes a toll on an athlete’s mental well-being? For Kansas State volleyball player Shaylee Myers, the answer was a difficult but ultimately necessary decision: to step away from competitive volleyball entirely. The announcement, made via a heartfelt Instagram post (detailed in a piece by Pro Football Network), has sparked conversation about the pressures faced by young athletes and the growing importance of prioritizing mental health within sports culture.

Myers, a 6'7" middle blocker for Kansas State, was considered a rising star in collegiate volleyball. She consistently ranked among the Big 12 Conference’s leaders in blocking and had established herself as a key contributor to the Wildcats’ success. Her physical prowess – her height and athleticism are frequently highlighted – made her a formidable opponent on the court. However, behind the impressive statistics and highlight-reel blocks lay a struggle with anxiety and burnout that ultimately became unsustainable.

The Pro Football Network article details how Myers' Instagram post revealed she had been grappling with these issues for some time. She described feeling overwhelmed by the constant pressure to perform, the demanding training schedule, and the relentless cycle of competition. While acknowledging her love for volleyball and gratitude for the opportunities it provided, she emphasized that continuing down that path was detrimental to her mental health. "This wasn't an easy decision," Myers wrote, “but I know in my heart this is what’s best for me.”

The article highlights a crucial point: Myers isn't simply retiring; she's stepping away. This distinction suggests the possibility of returning to volleyball at some point in the future, but only when she feels ready and able to do so without sacrificing her well-being. It’s a powerful statement that challenges the traditional narrative surrounding athletic careers – one that often prioritizes performance above all else.

The decision wasn't made lightly. According to the article, Myers consulted with coaches, family members, and mental health professionals before reaching her conclusion. Kansas State head coach Suzie Fritz expressed support for Myers’ choice, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing individual well-being. Fritz’s statement underscores a shift in perspective within collegiate athletics – a recognition that athletes are not just commodities to be molded into winning machines but individuals with complex emotional needs. (You can read more about Coach Fritz's philosophy and program at Kansas State here: [https://kstatesports.com/staff-directory/suzie-fritz/1036]).

The Pro Football Network article connects Myers’ decision to a broader trend within the athletic landscape. Increasingly, athletes across various sports are speaking out about mental health challenges and demanding greater support from their institutions and governing bodies. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues, as lockdowns, travel restrictions, and uncertainty surrounding competition created additional stress for athletes already operating under intense pressure. The article references the growing awareness of athlete burnout, a condition characterized by emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced sense of accomplishment – all symptoms that Myers described experiencing.

Furthermore, the piece draws parallels to other high-profile athletes who have prioritized their mental health in recent years. Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from several events at the Tokyo Olympics due to “the twisties” (a dangerous disorientation experienced by gymnasts) brought the issue of athlete mental health into sharp focus globally. Similarly, Naomi Osaka's openness about her struggles with depression and anxiety helped destigmatize mental illness within the sports world. These examples demonstrate a growing willingness among athletes to challenge the traditional “tough it out” mentality that has long dominated athletic culture.

The impact of Myers’ decision extends beyond Kansas State volleyball. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly invincible athletes are vulnerable to mental health struggles and that prioritizing well-being is not a sign of weakness but rather an act of strength. Her transparency in sharing her experience can inspire other young athletes facing similar challenges to seek help and advocate for their own needs.

The article concludes by emphasizing the need for continued dialogue and systemic change within collegiate athletics. This includes providing accessible mental health resources, fostering supportive coaching environments, and educating athletes about the importance of self-care. Shaylee Myers’ decision is not just a personal one; it's a catalyst for a much-needed conversation about the future of athlete well-being in a demanding and competitive world. It highlights that true success isn't solely measured by wins and losses, but also by the health and happiness of those who compete.

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