Milwaukee City Wire

All-American Raina Terry has joined the Milwaukee volleyball coaching staff as an assistant coach. The announcement was made by Susie Johnson on Thursday morning.

Terry, a former student-athlete at the University of Illinois, was recognized as an American Volleyball Coaches Association All-American in the past fall. "We're excited to welcome Raina to our team," said Johnson. "She brings a wealth of match experience and has consistently competed – and excelled – at the highest levels over the past five years in both the Big Ten and professionally. We're looking forward to her sharing those experiences with our student-athletes and helping them grow both on and off the court."

Originally from Marengo, Ohio, Terry played as an outside hitter for the Fighting Illini. She concluded her college career as Illinois' all-time leader in kills with 2,138 over 143 matches and also led in service aces with 220. Her versatility extended to achieving 975 digs, placing her in the top-10 for sets and matches played in Illinois program history.

During her tenure with Illinois, Terry contributed to 78 victories including 50 within Big Ten Conference play. The team participated in two NCAA Championships under her leadership, reaching the Sweet 16 during her sophomore year in 2021.

Besides being an AVCA All-American, Terry received honors such as two-time VolleyballMag All-American, three-time AVCA All-Region selection, and three-time All-Big Ten First Team honoree. In 2024-25, she was awarded the Big Ten Medal of Honor for excellence in scholarship and athletics at each Big Ten institution.

After completing her graduate season in 2024, Terry was drafted 11th overall by Columbus Fury in the Pro Volleyball Federation draft. Her professional debut included recording 194 kills, 10 service aces, 32 blocks, and 126 digs from mid-January to mid-April.

Terry holds an undergraduate degree in kinesiology from the University of Illinois along with a postgraduate degree in recreation, sport, and tourism. She has co-headed Prime Time Volleyball Club and worked as a camp coach at University of Illinois Volleyball Camp.

Milwaukee volleyball is set to begin its season on Friday, Aug. 29 with a road match against Omaha before hosting Iowa State, Central Michigan, and South Alabama at the Panther Invitational.