Mackenzie Steckler has been effective on the court for the Leathernecks all season. She currently ranks second in the Summit League in blocks per set with 1.09 while leading the team with 84 total blocks. She has logged the third most kills on the volleyball team this season with 125, while hitting .262, the highest on the team for a player with more than 135 total attacks. In the classroom, Steckler sports a 3.585 GPA.
What is your favorite part about playing at Western Illinois?
My favorite part about playing at WIU is being able to step on the court, whether it be practice or a game, and know that all 16 of my teammates have my back. I also love the relationships I’ve formed with my teammates. We always have a lot of fun on and off the court together.
What is your pre-game routine?
On my way to each game, I listen to “Full Eyes, Clear Heart, Can’t Lose.” It reminds me of the opportunity I have to play the game I love. Before the game, I’m always dancing around the locker room with my teammates getting pumped up. I also tend to eat a surprisingly amount of candy before games.
What is your favorite thing about Coach Staupe?
I love how Coach Staupe is always pushing us to reach our greatest potential. I know I can always count on him to give our team the best game plan after he’s spent countless hours (more like days) putting it together. He’s really invested and passionate about turning this program around and that’s what we need.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
I’ve received a lot of great advice over the past 20 years but these have stuck closer to me than others: “Always be yourself and do what makes you happy, no matter what anyone else thinks” and “Don’t stress about things you cannot control”.
What has been your favorite part of being in Macomb?
I love how it’s become my home away from home. I’ve also made life long friends here that I know I’ll always be able to count on.
What are your plans for after graduation?
After graduating, I plan to attend med-school and pursue my childhood dream of becoming a doctor.
What is your dream job?
My dream job is be a dermatologist. I’ve always known I wanted to be some sort of doctor and impact the lives of others in a positive way, and dermatology is something that I’m really passionate about pursuing.
What is your favorite food?
This is tough because I eat a considerably large amount of food and love all of it but I’d have to go with red velvet pancakes with icing or steak.
What is your favorite hobby outside of sports?
Outside of playing volleyball, I love driving around in my car listening to music or hanging out with my friends.
