Floodwood’s Kenzie Kiminski Shines as Volleyball Star with 1,800 Kills

Floodwood High School’s star volleyball player, Kenzie Kiminski, has made a significant mark in the sport despite the challenges of competing in one of Minnesota’s smallest public high schools. With fewer than 50 students in grades nine through twelve, Floodwood faces unique hurdles, especially when fielding competitive teams. Nonetheless, Kiminski has emerged as a standout athlete, drawing attention from colleges and earning accolades for her performance on the court.

In the recent Section 7A final, the Floodwood Polar Bears faced off against North Woods, a school with nearly 100 more students. The Polar Bears fell short in the match, losing in four sets at Rock Ridge High School. Despite the defeat, Kiminski’s impressive statistics speak volumes about her talent. She recorded over 1,800 career kills and 1,400 digs, leading to her selection as one of the Northland’s two All-State players for 2025. Additionally, she has caught the eye of Jim Boos, head coach of the Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs, where she plans to continue her volleyball career.

Kiminski describes her passion for the sport in simple terms: “I just like to compete.” Her love for high-stakes games motivates her to perform at her best during crucial moments. This competitive spirit has been evident throughout her high school career, characterized by intense playoff matches that fuel her adrenaline and drive.

The influence of her mother, Lora Kiminski, who has coached Kenzie for the past two seasons, has undeniably shaped her approach to the game. Lora notes that her daughter has always been competitive, applying herself fully to any endeavor she pursues. “When it comes to volleyball, she just wants the most competitive play there is,” Lora said.

Exceptional Work Ethic and Leadership

Former coach Derek Hart emphasizes Kiminski’s dedication during practice. “I’ve never seen a kid come off the floor as exhausted as she does,” he stated, highlighting her commitment to every training session. Kiminski’s relentless effort has fostered a sense of “silent leadership” among her peers, inspiring them to adopt a similar work ethic.

In addition to volleyball, Kiminski is a multi-sport athlete, participating in basketball during the winter months. She often balances her schedule by attending volleyball practices after basketball, demonstrating her commitment to both sports. Hart remarked that Kiminski’s example has encouraged her teammates to embrace a no-excuses mentality during practice.

As Kiminski matures, she has also become a more vocal leader on the team. Her ability to lead by example while also guiding and motivating her teammates has been pivotal for the success of the Polar Bears.

A Family Affair

At Floodwood, volleyball is often a family experience. Kiminski’s mother coaches the team, while her sister, Sadie Kiminski, serves as the setter. The sibling dynamic adds an interesting layer to their competitive spirit. Kenzie pushes Sadie to improve, and vice versa, creating a supportive yet challenging environment. “We’re really competitive,” Sadie said, recognizing their shared goal of mutual growth.

Looking ahead, Kenzie plans to join the Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs next season, where Boos anticipates her versatility will be an asset. “She has the athleticism and the size where she could be just about any position on the front row,” Boos noted. He compared her potential to that of former Bulldog players, highlighting her strong arm and athletic abilities.

Both Hart and Boos see considerable untapped potential in Kiminski. Hart noted that she has “never touched a weight room,” suggesting that her performance could further improve as she dedicates herself to volleyball full-time in college.

Kiminski’s decision to attend UMD was influenced by her desire to remain close to her family, allowing her to support her siblings in their athletic pursuits. “A big part of it was it’s 30, 45 minutes away from my house,” she explained.

As the 2025 News Tribune All-Area Player of the Year, Kiminski has set a high standard for herself and her community. Her journey from a small-town athlete to a collegiate player exemplifies the dedication and passion that sports can inspire, making her a role model for future generations of athletes.