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meet Rose Magers-Powell, 1984 Olympic Silver Medalist
RCVC Founder & Director
“Every girl deserves someone who believes in her potential—someone who’s been there, understands what it takes, and knows exactly how to bring out her best. That’s why I started RCVC.”
– Rose Magers-Powell
- USA Hall of Fame
- University of Houston Hall of Honors
- Martin Methodist College Hall of Honors
- Huntsville Sports Hall of Honors
- Professional Player for 9 years in Japan
- Steers Hall of Fame (Big Spring High School)
A Girl from Big Spring, Texas, with Big Dreams
Rose Magers-Powell wasn’t always an Olympian. Growing up in Big Spring, Texas, Rose was a shy girl from a humble family. Like many athletes today, she faced doubts, challenges, and fears about whether she was good enough. But sports—especially volleyball—changed her life.
At Big Spring High School, Rose discovered she was exceptional. She excelled not only in volleyball, but also basketball and track & field. Her talent was undeniable, yet even then, her success came from dedication, practice, and a deep belief that sports could open doors for her future.
College standout & early challenges
In 1978, Rose earned a volleyball scholarship to the University of Houston, immediately becoming a starter and key leader on the team. She led the Cougars to multiple championships, earning All-American honors and quickly gaining national attention.
But it wasn’t easy.
Rose transferred her senior year to Louisiana State University, facing new challenges, new teammates, and new expectations. Her coach, Ruth Nelson, described Rose as one of the most talented athletes she’d ever coached—but what truly made Rose special wasn’t just her athleticism:
“Rose was an exceptional setter and outstanding hitter, but more importantly, she worked harder than anyone. She was humble, coachable, and always willing to learn. That’s the Rose difference.”
— Ruth Nelson, College Coach
From College Athlete to Olympic Medalist
After college, Rose joined the USA National Volleyball Team, quickly becoming a key player. At first, the Olympics seemed impossible. She was young, inexperienced, and unsure if she belonged.
But Rose was mentored by legendary players like Flo Hyman, who taught her that confidence comes from preparation:
“As long as you prepare well, you’ll be ready to compete at any level.”
Rose took these words to heart. She earned a starting position on the USA Olympic team, and at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, she helped bring home a silver medal, achieving what once seemed impossible. She was named Most Improved Player at the Olympics, and in 1985, she was chosen for the prestigious All-World All-Star Team.
Professional Excellence in Japan
Immediately after the Olympics, Rose began a nine-year professional volleyball career in Japan, one of the toughest leagues in the world. She earned multiple MVP awards and built a reputation as one of the world’s greatest players. Her coach, Dr. Arie Selinger, praised her uniquely powerful yet graceful style:
“Rose was quick, skillful, composed, and positive under pressure—everything you want in a player and a leader. She didn’t just play volleyball; she changed the way people saw the game.”
— Dr. Arie Selinger, Professional Coach
Returning Home to Huntsville, AL — Building a Legacy
Returning Home to Huntsville, AL — Building a Legacy
After years overseas, Rose and her husband, Harry Powell, settled in Huntsville, Alabama, raising their two sons, William and Brandon. Volleyball remained Rose’s passion, and she knew it could transform lives right here in her new hometown.
In 1994, Rose founded Rocket City Volleyball Club (RCVC). Her goal was simple yet powerful:
• Provide young athletes with the high-level coaching she wished she’d had.
• Create a place where every girl could grow in confidence, discipline, and skills.
• Build a community that cared as much about the players’ future as their performance on the court.
A Facility Designed for Excellence
Rose’s ultimate dream was realized in 2009, when she opened RCVC’s state-of-the-art training facility in Huntsville. Designed specifically to protect and support athletes, the three-court center uses flooring technology identical to the Olympic playing surfaces.
It’s a place where dreams become goals, and goals become reality.
Results that Speak for Themselves
Under Rose’s leadership, Rocket City Volleyball Club has become one of the most respected programs in Alabama and beyond:
• 95% of 18-year-old RCVC players earn college volleyball scholarships.
• Teams regularly qualify for the USA National Volleyball Championships.
• RCVC alumni have competed at universities coast-to-coast—from Hawaii to Georgia, and beyond.
But Rose’s real pride is seeing young athletes grow stronger, braver, and more confident through volleyball:
“We measure success by the girls who walk out taller, stronger, and believing in themselves—ready for whatever life throws at them.”
— Rose Magers-Powell
Rose’s Personal Invitation to You
“I’m not sure if this is for you, but if your daughter dreams of competing at a higher level—or simply wants to build confidence and discipline for life—RCVC could be the place you’ve been looking for.
What happens next is simple. Schedule a visit, come see our program, and let’s talk about your daughter’s potential. No pressure, no expectations—just a conversation about how we can help her grow.
Rocket City Volleyball Club
