Ana Gonzalez

Whether she’s delivering powerful kills or making crucial defensive saves, Triton College volleyball star Ana Gonzalez of Stone Park consistently shows dedication, leadership and endurance – qualities that have earned her September Athlete of the Month honors, a recognition she deeply appreciates.   

Gonzalez, an all-around outside hitter, is a force on the court, averaging around eight-10 kills per game. When she’s in the back row, she contributes defensively, making saves that keep the Trojans in the game.  

Volleyball is really a competitive game both physically and mentally. It takes every single one of us working together and uplifting one another to succeed. We can’t always win them all, but our faith and resilience is what makes us a great, strong team.

Gonzalez discovered her love of volleyball in sixth grade. She fondly remembers touching a “volleyball for the first time in middle school,” and quickly becoming hooked on the excitement of the sport. It has been her passion ever since.

She continued competing in sports throughout her time at Proviso West High School, but her athletic journey took an unexpected turn during her sophomore year at Robert Morris College in Springfield. She suffered tears to her ACL, MCL and meniscus.

“I decided to take a long break from competitive volleyball in 2018,” she said. “I spent six years playing recreationally. In one of my recreation leagues, I met a woman named Kathy who introduced me to Coach Guy Lum. I am very grateful. I trusted the process and was exactly where I was meant to be.”

At Triton, Gonazlez values the camaraderie of the teammates and the way they rely on one another’s mental and physical strength when facing tough opponents. Through victories and defeats, she said, the team remains united. 

“That’s the beauty of the game,” she said. “As a team, we get to see our true potential together when we win but also learn from our mistakes. We know that all our hard work, high energy and positive mindset has only led to a positive outcome. We have something special that no one can take from us.”

Balancing academics, work and sports, Gonzalez credits time management to her success. Beyond her school commitments, she’s mostly proud of being a sister, aunt and godmother. She noted there’s a lot to “balance.”

“Because I love what I do, it makes it easier to make time,” she explained. “I try to stay ahead of the game and be there for those I love as much as I can.”

Gonzalez wants to especially thank her teammate, Skyler, whom she played volleyball with before Triton. She noted that they’re like “sisters” and have learned to lean on each other.

“I am so appreciative for the opportunity to play volleyball with Coach Lum and our assistant coaches,” she said. “The coaches genuinely care about me–not just as a teammate or player, but as a person. I’m so grateful for this honor.”

The journey back to competitive volleyball has reinforced the importance of perseverance, teamwork and believing in herself. Her advice to fellow Triton athletes reflects that same determination.

At Triton, Gonzalez is studying Business and plans to go into sports management. Her goal is to work with youth. 

“Whatever you set your mind to, go for it,” she said. “Reach for the stars.”

Learn more about Gonzlez with this short video and Triton College Athletics by visiting tritonathletics.com.

Triton College Athletics, Volleyball Program