Steve Smith was having a conversation with Central Washington coach Mario Andaya prior to their match at Alterowitz Gymnasium in mid-October.

"I was telling him I hate the fact I only have Devon for one season," recalled the head coach for the Montana State Billings volleyball program.

"He said, 'I don't.'"

Andaya could have been speaking for all the other GNAC coaches.

In just three seasons, Devon Crotteau has left her mark all over the career statistical categories for the Yellowjackets.

The hard-hitting Crotteau, a 6-foot senior and former Kelly Walsh standout, ranks among the top three for career kills and is among the top six for both digs and aces. She is only one of three players to record more than 1,000 kills, 1,000 digs and have more than 100 aces.

"Oh, yeah," said Crotteau on the surprise of her accumulation of numbers. "Seeing the numbers up there is totally weird to me. I'm an outside hitter, so you're going to get your swings, but on defense? That's especially a surprise."

For three seasons, teams have loaded their defense to slow her down. And almost every match, Crotteau still produces a double-double of kills and digs.

"Even when we struggle, she puts up her numbers," said Smith, MSUB's first-year coach. "... The first time I got to work with her, I realized she's a real-deal player. She always wants to get better. But I think it's more about her personality than her skill set. Devon is a good leader on the court, she's so supportive of her teammates."

Crotteau has been a bright constant in a whirl of change for the program. Smith is the team's third head coach in as many seasons.

"It's been up-and-down with the coaches, but my teammates have been so great," Crotteau said of her time at MSUB.

Ironically, Smith's emphasis on a balanced offense has meant fewer sets for Crotteau. The pay off has been more victories. Last season, the Yellowjackets staggered through a 7-23 season. This fall, MSUB is 16-10 and winners of five straight and nine of its last 12. Despite fewer touches, Crotteau still ranks among the nation's leaders for kills per game.

"Last year was really tough. I hate losing," Crotteau said. "We lost more matches last year than I did in all four years of high school.

"... This year has been so much fun. We want to prove to people we're a good team and get everybody's respect back from around the league."

Seeking more of a balance between the academic and athletic aspects of her life, Crotteau transferred to MSUB after one season with Division I Northern Colorado.

"I think everything happens for a reason," Crotteau said. "... I needed that first year to put everything in focus for me, to give me the right perspective on things."

Crotteau has two road matches remaining for her collegiate career (Thursday at Central Washington and on Saturday at Western Washington), but don't expect her to walk away from the sport.

She has a year to complete to graduate and also wants more time on the court, either professionally or assisting with the MSUB program.

"I'm not done with volleyball yet," said Crotteau. "It's been such a big part of my life for so long. I might have to wean myself away.

"I hope they want me if I'm still around here. Even if they lock the door ... that won't stop me."