Raegan Lantz led Miami (Ohio) University’s volleyball team in a Diabetes Awareness match on October 9, creating a scene that brought together athletes and children living with Type 1 diabetes. Before the game, Lantz met with eight local kids as part of “Dexcom U Days,” a mentorship initiative linked to Dexcom U, a college athlete NIL program focused on diabetes. The event gave the children a chance to engage with an elite athlete managing the condition at the highest level.
Lantz, a West Ottawa graduate diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 14, has used her platform to raise awareness and connect with others affected by the disease. She told The Holland Sentinel that the match “means a lot” to her and that she wants to be a “representation for kids.” She emphasized the importance of community for those with Type 1 diabetes, especially young people who might feel isolated. “Having the opportunity to bring awareness on whatever scale has been so meaningful to me,” she said, adding that the support from Miami’s coaching staff and school has been significant.
During the pre-match activities, Lantz shared her experiences managing diabetes on game day and offered encouragement to the children. “There are good days and bad days, but really leaning on community is important,” she said. The kids made posters for her and stood with the team during the National Anthem, an experience Lantz described as fulfilling her goal to not only raise awareness but also build a sense of community around the event. The group had grown since the tradition began three years ago, with no local children attending the first year and one the previous year.
On the court, Lantz helped Miami sweep Central Michigan, recording six kills and two blocks. Across 16 matches this season, she has 63 kills and 35 blocks. Her performance underscores her dual role as a top-level athlete and a role model for others managing diabetes. The Diabetes Awareness match is part of a continuing tradition at Miami, initiated by Lantz herself when she first approached her coaches with the idea.
Lantz’s volleyball career began at West Ottawa, where she was an all-state player and twice named Holland Sentinel Volleyball Player of the Year. She holds the school record for kills in a season with 669. As a senior at Miami, she is preparing to celebrate senior night later this season. Lantz has also made plans to explore the transfer portal to decide whether to use her fifth year of eligibility at Miami or at another school, depending on what fits best.
Reflecting on the current season, Lantz said, “The season is going great. Seeing the way my team fights has been really fun. This team has something really special going.” The Diabetes Awareness match remains a highlight, combining sport and advocacy in a way that reaches beyond the court.
According to Yahoo Sports.