Red Bay’s Blackburn to join NWSCC volleyball program as walk-on

On Wednesday, April 22, Red Bay High School senior Kyla Blackburn announced her decision to join the Northwest Shoals Community College volleyball program as a walk-on this fall, extending her playing career by at least one more season.

Blackburn, who made first contact with NWSCC head coach Susie Tverberg about the possibility of walking on, said she was looking forward to joining the Patriots later this year.

“I’m definitely very excited about it,” Blackburn said. “Ever since volleyball came to Red Bay I’ve loved playing the sport.

“For a while I was iffy because I didn’t know if I wanted to (play) at the next level, but I’ve known Coach Tverberg for a few years and she’s always been friendly and kind and is a good coach, so she was a big part of my decision,” she added. “Volleyball brings out a good feeling for me whenever I step on the court, and I love meeting new people when I play. I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates and going to Northwest Shoals.”

Blackburn’s decision to connect and talk to Tverberg about potentially walking on at NWSCC impressed the Patriots’ head coach, who is coming off her first season in charge of the revived program.

“I really admire the way she reached out and contacted me about joining the team. She took the initiative and that left a very good impression with me,” Tverberg said.

A Franklin Free Press All-Franklin County Second Team libero, Blackburn recorded 468 digs, 72 assists and had 43 aces in her final campaign at Red Bay. Described as an “energetic leader” by coaches, Blackburn was a mainstay on the court and critical to successes the Lady Tigers had during the 2025 season.

Tverberg told the FFP that Blackburn will be a valuable addition to the Patriots’ squad in the fall.

“Kyla will come in as a defensive specialist for us. I’ve watched her play several times, and I know she’ll bring a lot of energy to our team,” Tverberg said. “She’s very athletic; she’ll bring high energy and she’s a hard worker. We’re looking forward to having her.”