As she was introduced inside of White Auditorium ahead of a ranked matchup, Emporia State Senior Libero Miyu Tsurumaki greeted Hornet nation with a smile and burst of energy as one of the starters on what has been an impactful squad this year.
But more impressive than her prowess on the court this year is the 18-month journey that led her to Emporia’s White Auditorium, a journey that began at the age of 10 when the Japan native began her foray into the sport of volleyball, a career that would see her live out a childhood dream of studying and competing in the United States.
Tsurumaki would make stops at Southern Idaho and later Charlotte, where her childhood dream would be quickly interrupted by a devastating diagnosis at just 22 years of age.
Tsurumaki says the revelation left her speechless at first.
But her shock would turn to determination as she once again, embraced her competitive nature and vowed to overcome the illness and return to the court.
Her cancer journey was one she wouldn’t walk alone, as just like on the court, she was backed by a tremendous team.
In addition to her friends and family, Tsurmaki’s love for the sport of Volleyball gave her motivation to rally, just like on the court, and prepare step by step for a return to competition.
Her drive and desire eventually landed her on the radar of ESU head Coach Ken Murzek, who says she is a rare kind of person, as most athletes would not be able to battle back from what she has faced.
When speaking with KVOE, Tusurumaki says she is proud to be wearing a Hornet uniform and thankful to ESU for allowing her to finish her career on her own terms.
