Former Wisconsin captain and standout libero completes first-year head coach Don Gromala's inaugural coaching staff.

KENT, Ohio – The Kent State volleyball program has added former Wisconsin standout Kim Kuzma to its coaching staff as an assistant, first-year head coach Don Gromala announced Thursday (June 21).

"I want to thank Don Gromala for bringing me onto the staff here at Kent State," said Kuzma. "I am honored to be a Golden Flash and am so excited to work with the staff and the team at achieving our ultimate goal of winning championships."

Kuzma, who served as a team captain for the Badgers as a senior in 2010, ranks third on Wisconsin's all-time digs list after excelling at the libero spot for four seasons. Prior to her collegiate career, Kuzma was a 2007 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) High School Senior All-America honoree and a national player of the year finalist. She started at libero for the U.S. Youth National Team in 2004 and '05, helping the squad win the 2004 NORCECA Championship and place fourth in the 2005 World Championship.

"We couldn't be happier about having someone like Kim, who has been a part of elite programs all of her career, completing our staff," said Gromala. "Her passion and strong communication skills stood out during this process, and these qualities will make her an outstanding coach."

Kuzma got her coaching start as an assistant coach at Munciana Volleyball Club, spending the last six years helping coach athletes of the 18 Samurai team. Under Kuzma's guidance, the club won two national titles. She also served as a camp coach at Wisconsin and at several high schools.

A native of Muncie, Ind., Kuzma earned a bachelor of arts degree in communication, life sciences with a concentration in business from Wisconsin in 2011.