Leading on Land and Sea: Lydia Larson Embraces Coast Guard Journey
7/1/2025 12:30:00 PM | Volleyball
CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Citadel volleyball player, Lydia Larson, embraces the life of the United States Coast Guard as she participates in Coast Guard training during the summer.
A native of Spicer, Minnesota, Larson begins her final season as a Bulldog on the court and her senior year at The Citadel.
Starting in early summer, Lydia has started her move from the court to the sea.
While most students around the country use the summer as rest, Lydia found another way to spend her summer in Charleston.
“This summer, I have had the opportunity to work on an Active-Duty Boat Crew Qualification at Coast Guard Station Charleston. This is to be a qualified crew member on a Coast Guard 29’ small boat.”
“Additionally, I have been interning and job shadowing at Coast Guard Sector Charleston to explore future Coast Guard career paths.”
“The Charleston Coast Guard Auxiliary, Coast Guard Station Charleston, and Coast Guard Sector Charleston have played a vital role in this experience, allowing me to pursue active-duty qualifications and leadership skills.”
Drawn to the appeal of the United States Coast Guard, Larson felt it spoke directly to her ambitions.
“The United States Coast Guard appeals to me because it offers a unique blend of military services that include aviation, search and rescue, environmental protection, and maritime security.
The Coast Guard’s challenging environment offers unique maritime adventures that inspire my interests.”
The moment she set foot on The Citadel campus, Larson knew it was home.
“I decided to attend The Citadel because the moment I walked on campus, it felt like home. The opportunity to play Division I volleyball at a military college presented a unique path that I knew would challenge me both physically and academically, while developing my leadership skills.”
“Coach Dave and Coach Erin have consistently been my biggest champions in my pursuit of a Coast Guard commission. They genuinely care about each player and our personal growth on and off the court.”
Lydia will pursue a commission as an officer in the United States Coast Guard.
Larson helped the Bulldogs to a 2023 Southern Conference Regular Season Championship. Her best performance of her career came against Chattanooga, where she recorded a career-high 43 assists in a five-set victory over the Mocs.
The Citadel volleyball begins their season at the Buccaneer Invitational against IU Indy on August 29.
For more information and score updates on The Citadel volleyball team, please visit CitadelSports.com or follow @CitadelVB on X and @CitadelVolleyball on Instagram.
