Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt episode, Abby Fregien joins Outside the Pins to reflect on her journey through UW-Oshkosh Volleyball—both on and off the court. With graduation around the corner and grad school on the horizon, Abby opens up about what truly shaped her experience: family, faith, and finding her authentic voice as a leader.

Key Topics:

• 🏐 Growth through Adversity: How unconditional love and a “we over me” team culture create the foundation for meaningful development.
• 👟 The Oshkosh Journey: From Waukesha West to club volleyball to committing to UW-Oshkosh—how she found her fit and fell in love with the program.
• 💡 Values that Stick: Abby dives into her faith, family ties, and how gratitude and presence became daily practices.
• 🌱 Authentic Leadership: The moment she stopped trying to emulate others and leaned into leading by example—with kindness, clarity, and work ethic.
• 🎓 Academic Balance: Lessons from juggling elite athletics and earning her spot in UW-Madison’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
• 😂 Freshman Mishaps: A laugh-out-loud story of getting lost on a preseason trip—with no phones, wild outfits, and an A&W rejection.
• 🎯 Advice for Future Titans: Don’t wish away the hard moments—make memories, take chances, and show up as your full self.

Closing Thoughts:
Abby’s story is one of consistency, compassion, and quiet strength. Whether you’re a student-athlete, coach, or simply someone chasing your next chapter, this episode is packed with wisdom and warmth.