Middle Tennessee State University Athletics
True Blue Testimonials – Caroline Macander MTSU Volleyball Setter
9/16/2025 5:09:00 PM | General, Women's Volleyball, BRAA
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — From the Southside of Chicago to the heart of Murfreesboro, Caroline Macander has built her volleyball journey on passion, resilience, and purpose.
Inspired by her older sister Casey, Caroline began playing at a young age and continued the tradition at Mother McAuley High School, home to the nation's top-ranked volleyball program in 2024. But it was more than talent — it was about community, sisterhood, and heart.
Macander arrived at Middle Tennessee State University in 2022, drawn not by flashy recruiting pitches, but by something more meaningful — connection.
Now a senior at Middle Tennessee State University, Caroline has grown into a leader on and off the court. After seeing limited action in 2024, she's exploded in her final year — leading the team in assists and digs and posting multiple double-doubles, all powered by a fearless "Why not?" mindset.
Beyond the wins and training, volleyball became something much more profound for Macander — an emotional anchor during difficult times. Two of her closest family members were diagnosed with cancer. In 2021, her cousin Patrick Brennan lost his battle. More recently, her grandfather, Kenneth Macander, continues his own fight.
Kenneth isn't just a beloved grandfather — he's Caroline's biggest role model and the reason behind her decision to major in Mechatronics Engineering, an advanced field that blends mechanical, electrical, computer, and systems engineering to create intelligent, automated systems.
Murfreesboro, she admits, changed her. The administration, professors, community, and fans have all played a part in molding her into the person she is today — a leader, a teammate, and a future engineer.
"I've had physics professors come to my games," she says with a smile. "The support is unwavering. From the fans in blue and white to mentors in my major — they've helped set me up for life after college."
Ask Caroline what defines MTSU Volleyball, and she won't talk about stats, banners, or trophies.
"This program is selfless," she says.
From teammates and coaches to professors, the MTSU community has embraced her journey. And in return, Caroline is leaving behind a legacy of heart and grit — everything this program stands for.
To help support athletes like Caroline, please consider giving to the Champions Annual Fund. This fund is designed to help our student-athletes by providing educational and athletic opportunities for student-athletes from scholarships and academic support to housing and nutrition.
Inspired by her older sister Casey, Caroline began playing at a young age and continued the tradition at Mother McAuley High School, home to the nation's top-ranked volleyball program in 2024. But it was more than talent — it was about community, sisterhood, and heart.
Macander arrived at Middle Tennessee State University in 2022, drawn not by flashy recruiting pitches, but by something more meaningful — connection.
Now a senior at Middle Tennessee State University, Caroline has grown into a leader on and off the court. After seeing limited action in 2024, she's exploded in her final year — leading the team in assists and digs and posting multiple double-doubles, all powered by a fearless "Why not?" mindset.
Beyond the wins and training, volleyball became something much more profound for Macander — an emotional anchor during difficult times. Two of her closest family members were diagnosed with cancer. In 2021, her cousin Patrick Brennan lost his battle. More recently, her grandfather, Kenneth Macander, continues his own fight.
Kenneth isn't just a beloved grandfather — he's Caroline's biggest role model and the reason behind her decision to major in Mechatronics Engineering, an advanced field that blends mechanical, electrical, computer, and systems engineering to create intelligent, automated systems.
Murfreesboro, she admits, changed her. The administration, professors, community, and fans have all played a part in molding her into the person she is today — a leader, a teammate, and a future engineer.
"I've had physics professors come to my games," she says with a smile. "The support is unwavering. From the fans in blue and white to mentors in my major — they've helped set me up for life after college."
Ask Caroline what defines MTSU Volleyball, and she won't talk about stats, banners, or trophies.
"This program is selfless," she says.
From teammates and coaches to professors, the MTSU community has embraced her journey. And in return, Caroline is leaving behind a legacy of heart and grit — everything this program stands for.
To help support athletes like Caroline, please consider giving to the Champions Annual Fund. This fund is designed to help our student-athletes by providing educational and athletic opportunities for student-athletes from scholarships and academic support to housing and nutrition.
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