UCLA graduate Carly Hendrickson has been named one of two recipients of the CalHOPE Courage Award for December 2025, which honors California college athletes who have shown notable resilience in overcoming personal challenges. The award, presented monthly since February 2022, also recognizes Pomona-Pitzer’s Kirk Lord this month.
Hendrickson transferred to UCLA from Florida in November 2023 and soon faced a significant setback due to a hip injury that required two surgeries. This injury kept her out of competition for the entire 2024 season and led to an extended recovery period lasting more than a year. Despite being unable to play, Hendrickson remained actively involved with her team by attending practices, participating in film study, and supporting her teammates.
“There were moments when it felt overwhelming being away from the game for so long. I missed competing, I missed the physical grind, and that was hard mentally,” Hendrickson said. “What helped me was staying present every day, finding ways to challenge myself safely, staying around my teammates, and reminding myself that this process was about growth, not just getting back on the court.”
After being cleared late in the year, Hendrickson returned for the 2025 season and contributed significantly as UCLA finished with a 19-13 record and reached the second round of the NCAA Tournament. She played in 101 sets over 29 matches as a rotational outside hitter and recorded 47 kills, 32 digs, 21 blocks, 25 service aces, and accumulated 83.5 points. Following her graduation from UCLA in December, she transferred to Vanderbilt University for graduate studies while using her final season of athletic eligibility.
The CalHOPE Courage Award is supported by CalHOPE—a program operated by California’s Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) aimed at connecting individuals with mental health resources during times of crisis. CalHOPE works with partners such as the California Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being to promote resilience-building strategies through initiatives like this award. More information about CalHOPE’s services can be found at www.calhope.org or by calling their warm line at (833) 317-HOPE (4673).
