A Rising Star in Collegiate Athletics
Krystal Lopez has quickly established herself as a rising star in the world of collegiate sports administration. Since joining the San José State volleyball staff in April 2020, she has played a pivotal role in the program’s day-to-day operations, contributing to a culture of excellence and organization.
Her journey to this crucial role is a testament to her passion for sports and her unwavering dedication to supporting student-athletes.
From Athlete to Strategist: The Early Years
Long before she was coordinating travel and managing logistics, Krystal Lopez was a talented athlete in her own right. At Montwood High School in El Paso, Texas, she was a two-time First Team All-District selection in volleyball and also excelled in basketball.
Her athletic career continued at the collegiate level, where she played for two years at Midland College before moving on to St. Gregory’s University. This firsthand experience as a student-athlete provided her with invaluable insights into the challenges and demands of collegiate sports.
The TCU Foundation: A Springboard to Success
Lopez’s transition from athlete to administrator began at Texas Christian University (TCU), where she served as a graduate assistant for the women’s volleyball program from 2018 to 2019. This role proved to be a critical stepping stone in her career.
At TCU, she worked closely with the director of operations, gaining hands-on experience in creating travel itineraries, managing rooming lists, and coordinating meal planning. Her exceptional organizational skills were on full display as she assisted in planning the logistical needs for the team’s 2019 NIVC postseason run.
A New Era at San José State
In April 2020, Lopez embarked on a new chapter in her career, joining the San José State volleyball program as the Director of Operations. In this capacity, she is responsible for a wide range of administrative and logistical duties that are essential to the team’s success.
Her work allows the coaching staff to focus on strategy and player development, while she ensures that all off-court activities are handled with precision and care.
The Kersten Connection: A Partnership in Excellence
Lopez’s move to San José State was a natural progression, as she was the first hire by new head coach Trent Kersten, with whom she had worked closely at TCU. This existing professional relationship created a seamless transition and a strong foundation of trust.
Coach Kersten praised her contributions, stating, “She is hardworking and incredibly knowledgeable. Krystal will have a positive impact on the student-athletes that we get to serve here at San José State.”
Building a Strong Foundation: Education and Versatility
Lopez’s success is built on a solid educational foundation. She earned an Associate of Science degree from Midland College, a bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Performance from Oklahoma Baptist University, and a Master of Liberal Arts from TCU.
Her versatility extends beyond the world of athletics. During her time in El Paso, she spent two summers as a marketing intern for Border Therapy Services, where she developed effective marketing strategies.
Behind the Scenes: The Impact of a Director of Operations
The role of a Director of Operations is often unsung but is absolutely critical to the success of a collegiate team. From coordinating complex travel schedules to managing budgets and ensuring compliance with NCAA regulations, Lopez handles the intricate details that keep the program running at a high level.
Her work creates a stable and organized environment, allowing student-athletes to thrive both on and off the court.
The Future is Bright
With her impressive track record and unwavering commitment to excellence, Krystal Lopez is poised for a long and successful career in collegiate athletics. Her journey from dedicated athlete to indispensable administrator serves as an inspiration to many.
As she continues to be a driving force behind the San José State volleyball program, there is no doubt that her impact will be felt for years to come.
