More Than a Game: Cameron Reese Brings Energy and Poise to The Citadel
10/14/2026 11:00:00 AM | Volleyball
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Whether she's competing on the volleyball court or walking across a pageant stage, Cameron Reese understands what it takes to perform under pressure.
Â
For the freshman outside hitter at The Citadel, volleyball and beauty pageants may seem like two completely different worlds, but both have played an important role in shaping her confidence, discipline and competitive spirit.
Â
While one demands physical toughness and teamwork, the other requires poise, precision and composure. Together, they have helped Reese embrace the challenges of being a Division I student-athlete at one of the nation's six Senior Military Colleges.
Â
Finding Her PlaceÂ
When Reese began searching for a college, she wanted more than an opportunity to continue playing volleyball. She was looking for an environment that would challenge her academically, athletically and personally.
Â
With a family connection to military education, Reese was immediately drawn to The Citadel's structured environment.
Â
"My dad went to the Air Force Academy. I've kind of always liked structure," Reese said.
Â
That appreciation for discipline, combined with the atmosphere surrounding the Bulldogs' volleyball program, made Charleston feel like the right destination.
Â
"I love the energy. I love the people on the volleyball team," Reese said. "It kind of just, all the cards kind of fell in line at the right time."
Â
However, adjusting to life as a cadet-athlete presented challenges that extended well beyond the volleyball court.
Â
The increased intensity of practices, weightlifting sessions and daily responsibilities quickly showed Reese how much dedication would be required to succeed.
Â
"It's much more high-intensity. There are so many more lifts, more training days, and not a lot of breaks," she explained. "You have to go, and you have to go hard every day. You can't just take a day off because you're a little tired."
Â
Through those adjustments, Reese has leaned on her teammates, particularly Greta Pleuss and Mia Watson, who have helped make the transition easier.
Â
"They're the two that make my day. When I see them, I get excited. I get energized," Reese said. "They want to hold me accountable, but they also hype me up. They make sure I don't get negative and they make sure I stay on track."
Â
Bringing the Energy
Â
One of Reese's most recognizable qualities is the enthusiasm she brings to the court.
Whether celebrating a point, encouraging a teammate or helping the Bulldogs regain momentum, Reese believes her energy is one contribution she can control regardless of her individual performance.
Â
"If I can't be a really good passer or a really good hitter or if I miss my blocking assignments, the least I can do is have really good energy," she explained. "It's the one thing that I try to keep consistent when I play is loud talk and high energy."
Â
That mindset has become an important part of her approach as she continues developing at the collegiate level.
Â
Away from competition, Reese has also learned the importance of managing her time and finding opportunities to recover from the demands of being a cadet-athlete.
Â
"You've got to get naps in when you can," she said with a laugh. "When it is time to put down the phone, you have to put down the phone. You've got to prioritize that."
Â
While the demanding schedule has required adjustments, Reese has embraced the responsibility that comes with representing The Citadel.
Â
Â
Beyond the Court: A Passion for Pageantry
Â
Long before Reese stepped onto the court for the Bulldogs, she was developing another set of skills under a different spotlight.
Â
Her introduction to beauty pageants came through her mother, whose experience competing inspired Reese to explore pageantry herself.
Â
"It opened my eyes. I was like, she's beautiful. I always thought my mom was beautiful, but it was in a different light," Reese said.
Â
Although her early experiences brought challenges, Reese kept competing and gradually developed a passion for the stage.
Â
"Eventually, I just got better and better," Reese recalled. "It was the one thing … pageantry is not hard for me. It's just easy."
Â
While volleyball and pageantry might seem to have little in common, Reese sees a strong connection between the preparation and attention to detail required to succeed in both.
Â
"When it's game day, it is only game day. That is the only thing you can focus on," Reese said.
For Reese, the similarities extend to the smallest details of competition, where preparation and execution can make all the difference.
Â
"Everything has to be perfect. Your walk must be perfect; just like in volleyball, your approach has to be perfect," Reese explained.
Â
The lessons she has learned through both experiences have shaped how she carries herself on and off the court.
Â
Pageantry has taught her to remain composed, communicate thoughtfully and present herself with confidence. Volleyball, meanwhile, has pushed her to become more vocal, courageous and comfortable stepping outside her comfort zone.
Â
"Pageantry makes me watch what I say before I say it. Volleyball makes me brave and confident," Reese said.
Â
Together, those experiences have given Reese a unique perspective on handling pressure, embracing challenges and believing in herself.
Â
Looking Ahead
Â
As Reese continues her freshman season, she remains focused on growing as a player, strengthening relationships with her teammates and helping the Bulldogs build momentum.
Â
"I'm excited to see what we keep doing," she said.
Â
For Reese, success is about more than individual statistics or accomplishments. It is about bringing consistent effort, encouraging those around her and making the most of every opportunity.
Â
Whether standing beneath the bright lights of a pageant stage or competing in front of the Bulldog faithful, Reese continues to carry the lessons of both worlds with her.
Â
On the stage, she has learned the value of poise. On the court, she has discovered the power of her voice. At The Citadel, she is learning how to bring both together.
Â
--#BattleReady--
Â
Â
