MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Milwaukee Area Technical College is proud to announce that women's volleyball head coach Shel DeLisle has been nominated for the 2025 American Volleyball Coaches Association-The Marines Battles Won Award, which recognizes players and coaches across the country who have overcome significant obstacles both on and off the court.

This year, the AVCA selected 15 individuals for recognition — 10 players and five coaches — each with a compelling story of resilience, perseverance and impact. Their journeys are being spotlighted over a six-week period this fall, with DeLisle's story scheduled for release in the coming weeks.

DeLisle was nominated for her extraordinary recovery from a career-altering spinal injury sustained during her earlier years as a firefighter.

Before stepping into her prominent coaching roles, DeLisle built a distinguished career in public service. In 1998, she became the first female firefighter in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, serving the community with honor until retiring in 2016 as a lieutenant due to lung damage. Her spinal trauma began around 2011 or 2012, when a roof collapsed during a firefighting operation. The injury was compounded by a misdiagnosis and lack of timely treatment, eventually allowing a bone shard to lodge in her spine.

Beginning in 2018, a series of falls further eroded her mobility. By early 2022, her condition had deteriorated significantly. She could no longer take pain medication, had lost functional use of her right arm and struggled with basic movement. The limitations left her feeling like a burden to those around her, deepening the emotional toll.

Recovery was long and difficult. DeLisle underwent multiple surgeries to stabilize her spine, followed by months of intensive physical therapy to rebuild strength and restore movement. Just as important was the emotional healing — the slow, deliberate process of reclaiming confidence, independence and peace of mind. Each step forward marked a hard-earned victory in a journey defined by resilience.

"When I found out I was selected, I almost cried," DeLisle said. "It had been really hard, harder than most people realized, and it was so good to know someone else saw that."

Two honorees will be formally presented with the 2025 AVCA The Marines Battles Won Award during the AVCA Convention this December in Kansas City. Their stories will be shared with coaches, athletes and volleyball leaders from across the country.

To view the full list of honorees and the schools they represent, click [HERE].