If you are a Michigan volleyball fan or have at least gone to a
game or two at Cliff Keen Arena, you may know several big name
players like libero Sarah Allen, outside hitter Jennifer Gandolph
and setter Lisa Gamalski. Still, you might miss 6-foot-1 sophomore
middle blocker Megan Bowman. She’s not the flashy type of
player that many fans recognize, but she still plays a crucial role
in helping the Wolverines win.

“She is very physical, and her good play at the net allows
everyone else to do their job that much better,” Michigan
coach Mark Rosen said.

A gifted athlete, Bowman never imagined herself playing
volleyball. Growing up in St. John, Ind., she spent most of her
time playing basketball whereas a majority of college volleyball
players have been playing for most of their lives. She didn’t
pick up club volleyball until seventh grade. Although it may seem
like a setback, Bowman’s time on the basketball court
elevated her play on the volleyball court.

“The defensive mindset I have to have in volleyball was
the same as in basketball,” Bowman said. “I go up
against the other team’s best player and have to stop her
from using her strengths.”

As a freshman, Bowman was just the second Michigan player named
to the Big Ten All-Freshman team. Even more impressive is that,
while her role on the team was limited to a defensive mindset last
year, this year her play has grown to encompass the offensive side
of the game. After just 20 matches this season, Bowman already has
146 kills and is well on her way to eclipsing her 184 kills last
year.

“Last year, we had several other girls who could give us a
lift offensively, allowing us to use Megan as a defensive
player,” Rosen said. “Now, she’s worked hard on
her offensive skills to nicely complement our attack.”

Bowman had shoulder surgery during the off-season, which could
have hampered her ability to contribute to this year’s team.
Instead, she rehabbed her arm back into playing shape and spent
time in the gym working on her technique.

“I went into surgery knowing that I had a starting
spot,” Bowman said. “I was on the floor a lot as a
freshman, and I wanted to make sure I could stay on the court.
While rehabbing, I knew I wanted to come back and make an impact. I
didn’t want to lose my starting spot.”

All of Bowman’s work rehabbing her shoulder has paid off
this year. Early in the season, she received All-Tournament honors
at the Michigan/Nike Invitational where the Wolverines defeated
then-No. 22 Tennessee — a match in which Bowman registered 10
kills and seven blocks. She is currently sixth in the Big Ten with
81 blocks and sixth on the team with 146 kills. Meanwhile, she is
also 13th all-time in block assists at Michigan.

Not only does Bowman bring great physical skills to the table,
but she also has a great attitude.

“She’s a great communicator,” Rosen said.
“Last year, she didn’t talk that much because she was
still adjusting to the college game, but this year she’s
doing a great job talking. She’s a hard worker. She’s
here every practice working on the fundamentals and also comes in
to watch game tape. She’s all business.”

The Wolverines travel to East Lansing for a rematch with
Michigan tonight at 7 p.m. and return to Cliff Keen Area on Friday
to host Illinois.