OSHAWA, Ont. - Katherine Konkle will make the next step in her volleyball career after graduating from Durham College, signing a professional contract with TV Dingolfing in Germany's 2. Bundesliga Frauen.

Konkle is thrilled about this new chapter in her life. The opportunity to live and play overseas has been a dream for her, and she's eager to embrace the challenges and growth that come with it.

"From joining a new team to experiencing a different culture, I know this next chapter will push me outside my comfort zone in the best way possible," she said.

Her time at Durham College prepared her for this significant step in her volleyball career. The rigorous training and competitive environment helped her develop into a more well-rounded player.

Beyond the court, Durham shaped Konkle as a teammate and leader, lessons she'll carry with her into her professional career.

"From tough practices to high-pressure games, I learned to stay focused, work through adversity, and trust in the process," she said.

While the prospect of moving to a new country is both exciting and nerve-wracking, Konkle is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come her way. This will be her first time living abroad, and she's eager to meet new people, learn about a different culture, and grow as both an athlete and a person.

"I've always wanted to challenge myself in new ways and push myself outside of my comfort zone, and this is such a unique opportunity to do that through volleyball," she said.

One of the valuable lessons Konkle learned during her time at Durham was how to balance academics and athletics. With careful planning and discipline, she managed to excel in both areas. This experience taught her the importance of making space for rest and not just doing more, but doing things smarter. The strong support system at Durham played a significant role in her success.

For current or future student-athletes at Durham College who dream of playing at the next level, Konkle has some advice. She encourages them to be proactive and take control of their own journeys. Consistency, self-advocacy, and focusing on their own paths are key. And above all, she advises them to enjoy the process because college flies by.

"Don't wait for someone to hand you the opportunity. Stay consistent, ask questions, get in the gym early, take care of your body, and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself," she said.

As Konkle prepares for her debut with TV Dingolfing, she's focused on keeping her body strong and healthy through strength training and mobility exercises. She's also studying film on her new team to understand their style of play. Preseason will be all about building team chemistry and adapting to the new system, and Konkle is determined to show up prepared and ready to contribute.

Reflecting on her journey, Konkle acknowledges that the idea of playing professionally became real during her college years. As she continued to develop and see what was possible, her passion for the sport grew stronger. She knew she wouldn't be ready to stop playing after college, and she didn't want to have any regrets.

"I knew I'd regret not giving this a real shot," she said.

Katherine came to Durham for the 2024-25 season to use her final year of OCAA eligibility. She was immediately a difference maker, recording 54 kills on 143 total attacks for a .315 hitting percentage, 35 blocks, 23 digs, 10 service aces and 99.0 points.

"Katherine made an immediate impact the moment she joined our program. Her professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to growth set a standard for everyone around her," said DC Head Coach Tony Clarke. "Watching her take this next step is incredibly rewarding, and there's no doubt in my mind she'll thrive overseas. We're proud to have been part of her journey and can't wait to see what she accomplishes next."

A unique opportunity arrived during the season as Durham College hosted the 2025 CCAA Women's Volleyball National Championship, giving Konkle the chance to compete on the national stage.

She earned a spot among the OCAA Women's Volleyball East Division Second Team All-Stars, and excelled in the classroom where she was awarded an OCAA All-Academic Award and CCAA Academic All-Canadian honour.

The club plays in Dingolfing, a town in the southeast of Germany. With a population of nearly 21,000, the town sits just over 100km north of Munich.

TV Dingolfing is set to open their season on the road against Waldgirmes at the Sporthalle der Lahntalschule Atzbach on September 20, with their home opener Eintracht Spontent Düsseldorf at the Sporthalle Höll-Ost taking place on October 11.

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