Episode 144: Hall of Fame Class of 2026 featuring Nichole Millage-Faust
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In Episode 144 of The USA Volleyball Show, host Stephen Munson celebrates the upcoming induction of four-time Paralympic medalist Nicole Milledge Faust into the USA Volleyball Hall of Fame Class of 2026. The episode features an emotional and insightful conversation with Faust, reflecting on her legendary career with the U.S. Women's Sitting National Team, her journey from a chance encounter at a softball tournament to becoming a national team icon, and her evolution from player to mentor. She shares powerful memories from the Paralympic Games—particularly the historic 2016 Rio gold medal victory over China—and recalls the touching moment when she taught President Obama about the tactile beads in Paralympic medals for vision-impaired athletes. The episode also includes a surprise call-in from teammate Katie Holloway Bridge, who shares fond stories of their decades-long friendship and the team’s unique bond. Faust discusses the evolution of sitting volleyball, the importance of media visibility, athlete advocacy, and equal pay, while also sharing her post-retirement life, including her engagement, wedding, and home renovation. The episode closes with excitement for the May 2026 Hall of Fame induction in Orlando and the upcoming USA Volleyball Open Nationals.
Nicole Faust’s journey began with a chance meeting at a softball tournament, leading her to discover sitting volleyball and a life-changing career.
The 2016 Rio gold medal victory over China was a defining moment, marked by emotional triumph and historic significance.
Faust emphasizes the importance of athlete advocacy, equal pay, and media visibility for Paralympians to achieve parity with Olympians.
Team relationships and mentorship are central to the U.S. Women’s Sitting National Team’s culture and success.
Faust’s post-retirement life includes marriage, home renovation, and continued advocacy—proving that legacy extends beyond competition.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction to the Hall of Fame Class of 2026
Host Stephen Munson introduces the episode and the upcoming 2026 USA Volleyball Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Orlando, Florida, setting the stage for the celebration of Nicole Milledge Faust’s legacy.
Nicole Faust’s Hall of Fame Induction and Emotional Reaction
“It was a welcome surprise. Every time I think I've done the coolest thing with USA Volleyball, something even cooler pops up.”
Team Memories and the Surprise Call from Katie Holloway Bridge
“We played volleyball too, I promise that was the first time we ever beat China but um in China which was amazing but yeah there's just so many good memories”
Paralympic Journey: From Beijing to Tokyo
“To go out on top with another gold medal was of course thrilling. And it was wonderful. And I was glad that I was there to support my team through that because it wasn't easy.”
The Power of Team and Leadership Beyond the Court
“She became a foundational leader of everyone on the team. A sounding board, um, a support system for people to go to and she understood every person's role.”
“I just taught the president something that he didn't know. So, so yeah, that's one of my most favorite memories just to top off that whole experience of Rio.”
“We all stood there in front of the net to take a picture. Then Ryan was like, hold on, why have you all there? Then he gets down. And proposes.”
“It was a welcome surprise. Every time I think I've done the coolest thing with USA Volleyball, something even cooler pops up.”
Host
Guest
Nicole Milledge Faust
person
U.S. Women's Sitting National Team
other
USA Volleyball
organization
Katie Holloway Bridge
person
Paralympic Games
other
China
place
Stephen Munson
person
Ryan
person
Rio Paralympics
other
Bill
person
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