Tyra Listenbee to Play Volleyball at Lander University

On May 13, 2025, senior volleyball player Tyra Listenbee committed to continuing her athletic career at Lander University next year. The Lander Bearcats dominated the Peach Belt Conference in volleyball this year.  

“I chose this school because of their volleyball program. They have a strong program and were conference champions and made it to the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA tournament,” Listenbee said.  

Her career path at NRCA ran through athletics and fine arts. “I began playing volleyball in seventh grade, along with doing marching band,” Listenbee said. "I started playing volleyball because all of my friends played.” 

Listenbee's offer to play at the next level comes through an intense commitment to work to become the best athlete she could be. “I work out with NRCA alumnus Nate Miller to work on my jump training, and I also train at NC Volleyball Academy three times a week, which helps me better my skills every week,” she said.  

Across her six years as part of NRCA’s volleyball program, Listenbee’s favorite memory is her final time playing in Knights blue and gold. She shared, “My favorite memory is winning the state championship this past year. It showed that hard work truly pays off and that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.” 

As she continues her journey beyond high school, Listenbee aims high for her time with the Bearcats. “My athletic goal for college is to go into college prepared to play, so I can possibly start and also to win a national championship while I’m there,” she said. 

Looking back on the support system that helped her make it to the next level, Listenbee expressed gratitude to the people who fostered her success. “I would like to thank God for being the head of my life; my parents for putting so much of their life and time into me; and Coach Murray, Coach Buckley, Coach Skylar, Coach Polston, and Coach White for pushing me to my limits and believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself.”