HOUSTON — Kalei Edson, a former Centralia High standout volleyball player, realized something when she entered Auburn University that all athletes realize when they recall their careers: not only do you have teammates, but you have an instant group of potential friends.
Edson is en route to greeting a new group of teammates and potential friends as she transfers to the University of Houston to play her final two years of collegiate volleyball.
“I entered the transfer portal merely to get more playing time and to play in a 5-1, instead of a 6-2,” said Edson. “When I visited Houston, I loved the coaching staff and had made up my mind to commit to them. The team has a solid foundation of culture and structure. The head coach at Houston (David Rehr) was looking to bring in leaders who can compete and win.”
She selected to suit up for the Lady Cougars and continue her education in Houston over Vanderbilt University, Louisiana State University and University of South Carolina.
Edson will enter Houston after posting 956 assists in her first two seasons at Auburn. The former Annie player played in all but one match in her two years with the Tigers. She would finish at least 467 assists in each of the two years. She would also post 331 digs, 59 aces and three kills.
“Knowing that I am that close to 1,000 assists in two years, makes be think about that milestone, which should happen early in the season,” said Edson. “I know the hitters at Houston are very skilled, good and athletic. That should lead to earning another milestone, 2,000 assists this year.”
Auburn improved during her pair of years there as well. They were one game over .500 during her freshman season posting a mark of 14-13. They were 4-12 in the Southeastern Conference. During her sophomore season, they were 17-11 overall and 7-8 in the SEC.
In 2025, Edson had 482 assists in 28 matches, not missing a single match as a sophomore. She would also have 177 digs and 19 service aces.
“My sophomore year was a great deal of fun to be on the volleyball court with that group of women,” said the 5-foot-10 setter. “They were so much fun to team with and they helped me love volleyball even more than I already do. My freshman year, we fell into slump and we were not jelling the way should be. That needed to happen especially to get wins in the SEC. That was the lowest point of my career.”
There could be some more more milestones given the recent ruling that governs NCAA Athletes, that allow them five years of eligibility. For that reason, she could easily get 3,000 or even 4,000 assists in her career. She will be one of two athletes that is a setter. She is the older of the two as the other is only an incoming freshman.
Houston was 9-20 overall and 2-16 in the Big 12 Conference in 2025. This will be their fourth year in the Big 12 and were previously in The American Conference.
“I just want to be the main setter in the 5-1,” said Edson. “But, if the coaches decide that a 6-2 is needed and what is best for the team, I will adjust. I will do that and lean into that role and be the best teammate I can be for those rotations as a setter. I would also be supportive for the rotations I am on the bench. I hope, individually, I will be selected to the all-conference team in the Big 12 Conference. I am showing up early, working out, learning and putting in the work. I want to put in the extra time for school work to reach my potential academically as well.”
The daughter of Angie and Nate Edson of Centralia will be seeking a Bachelors Degree in Integrated Studies. Academically, she will also seek a Minor in Sports Coaching.