🏐 Alumni of the Week: Drew McIntyre

A Chance Encounter, A Lifelong Connection

For Drew McIntyre, the road to competitive volleyball wasn’t planned—it was paved by a spontaneous moment and a coach’s instinct.

“I stumbled into the 18-1 Prevail team wh


en I was just 17. I had played and won a sand volleyball tournament at the Sheaffer courts, and Coach Clark asked if I’d be interested in trying out.”

With under a year of volleyball experience and a full basketball season underway, the timing wasn’t perfect—but the opportunity was. Despite the 45-minute drive each way, often after school and a grueling basketball practice, Drew committed. What kept him going?

“My body and mind were completely exhausted, but the welcoming family of Prevail and the guys I played with kept me coming back.”

And just like that, something clicked.

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More Than a Team, A Turning Point

Prevail wasn’t just a volleyball club for Drew—it was the environment where his love for the game took root, and his work ethic took off.

“If you want something, earn it. That mindset shaped the athlete and man I am today.”

He quickly discovered that skill wasn’t the only thing that mattered. It was the shared hunger to improve that built bonds—ones that would last long after the last point.

“Seeing a group of guys, most with completely different backgrounds, united by their drive to get better—that was inspiring. I consider every one of them a friend for life.”

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A Leader On and Off the Court

That mindset followed Drew to Bloomsburg University, where he took every opportunity to lead, serve, and grow:

🏐 2x All-Conference Setter – MACVC (Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Volleyball Conference)
🎓 Graduated Cum Laude in Communication Studies, with a focus in Public Advocacy & Leadership
🏅 President & Captain of the Men’s Club Volleyball Team (2024–2025)
🧠 Vice President (2023–2024) and member of the National Society of Leadership and Success
🏆 4x Intramural Volleyball Champion (self-labeled “sandbagger”)
📋 2022 Women’s Volleyball Team Manager
🧍 PIAA Certified Volleyball Referee

But his proudest moments weren’t just about stats or titles—they were about watching the next wave of players fall in love with the sport.

“We had about 40 guys on the club team, and 30 of them had never played competitively. Watching them grow and discover their own passion for volleyball was life-changing.”

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A Changed Player, A New Perspective

Drew is the first to admit—his mindset on the court has changed. The player who once wrestled with frustration and perfectionism has grown into a steady, supportive presence.

“Volleyball is a momentum sport. You HAVE to forget the last point and move on. That perspective has transformed my game—and my life.”

And while he’s stepped off the collegiate court, he’s nowhere near done.

“I will participate in as many volleyball-related activities as I physically can until my knees give out.”

Weekend tournaments, officiating, rec leagues, coaching—he’s here for all of it. Especially if it means squaring off with fellow alum:

“If I don’t lose to Christian Sheaffer at Pottstown at least once, my life will be a failure.”

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The Legacy of Prevail

Even as life evolves, the connection to Prevail stays strong.

“Continuing to be friends through the different stages of life—that’s been the most rewarding part. Watching everyone succeed in their own way, cheering each other on from afar... it means the world.”

Drew credits Prevail for giving him more than volleyball—it gave him confidence, belonging, and the clarity to chase what matters most.

“Without Prevail (and Gold Rush—iykyk), I wouldn’t be close to the man I am today.”

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Advice for the Next Generation

To current Prevail athletes wondering what life after high school or college volleyball looks like, Drew has simple but heartfelt advice:

“Take it one day at a time. Change is hard—it always is—but you’ll get through the days you think you can’t.
College is amazing. Treasure those memories, hold tight to your friendships, and if volleyball is something you love—stick with it.”

And of course, in true Drew fashion:

“I LOVE PREVAIL VOLLEYBALL BABYYYYYY. I’LL SEE YOU IN THE SUMMERRRRRR.”

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#AlumnioftheWeek | #OncePrevailAlwaysPrevail