Surprise: Bergen Reilly Melts Hearts Worldwide with Quiet Act of Kindness – Rebuilds Childhood Volleyball Court to Save Owner and Inspire Impoverished Kids
January 9, 2026 – Sioux Falls, South Dakota In a heartwarming surprise that has captivated the volleyball world and beyond, Nebraska Cornhuskers setter Bergen Reilly has quietly invested millions of dollars to rebuild the rundown community volleyball court where she honed her skills as a teenager.
The gesture not only saved the facility’s owner from bankruptcy but also restored hope to hundreds of impoverished children in her hometown, turning a childhood dream into a profound humanitarian legacy.
The revelation came during an emotional ribbon-cutting ceremony at the newly renovated Sioux Falls Community Sports Complex on January 8—a modest outdoor facility that had fallen into disrepair over the years.
Reilly, the 21-year-old phenom fresh off another historic season, arrived unannounced with her family, teammates, and a small group of locals. What was billed as a routine community event quickly transformed into a tearful celebration when Reilly stepped forward to reveal her personal involvement.
“This place gave me everything,” Reilly said, voice cracking as tears welled in her eyes. “I trained here barefoot as a kid, dreaming of playing college ball. When I heard it might close because of debts, I knew I had to do something.
This isn’t about me—it’s about the kids who will come after, the ones who can’t afford fancy clubs but have big hearts and bigger dreams.”
The story of Reilly’s quiet generosity began months ago. The complex, a converted baseball field with cracked courts and faded nets, was on the brink of foreclosure.
Owner Tom Harlan, a retired coach in his 70s who had maintained the facility for decades on a shoestring budget, faced mounting debts from repairs and taxes. “I was ready to sell,” Harlan admitted, choking up. “This place was my life, but I couldn’t keep it going.”
Reilly, upon learning of the crisis through a local news snippet, reached out anonymously at first. Using prize money from her endorsements, awards, and NIL deals—estimated in the millions following her breakout 2025 season—she funded a complete overhaul: new courts, lighting, bleachers, locker rooms, and even a youth scholarship program.
The total investment topped several million dollars, sources confirm, with Reilly covering costs personally to ensure no strings attached.
But it wasn’t just money. Reilly rolled up her sleeves, visiting the site incognito during breaks from Nebraska’s rigorous schedule. She consulted with architects, chose durable equipment suited for beginners, and incorporated inclusive features like adaptive courts for children with disabilities.
“I remembered playing here with kids from all backgrounds,” she shared. “Some couldn’t afford shoes. I wanted this to be a place where no one feels left out.”
The ceremony itself was pure magic. Hundreds gathered on a crisp winter afternoon, bundled in red Huskers gear. Harlan, unaware of the benefactor’s identity until the big reveal, wept openly when Reilly handed him the deed free of debt. “Bergen… I had no idea,” he stammered.
“You’ve saved my dream—and theirs,” he added, gesturing to the wide-eyed children clutching new volleyballs.
Reilly’s teammates, including close friend Harper Murray, surprised her by flying in for the event. Murray, fighting tears, hugged her: “This is why you’re our leader. Not just sets and wins—this heart.” Nebraska coach Dani Busboom Kelly, via video message: “Bergen embodies what it means to be a Husker.
We’re proud beyond words.”
The moment that melted hearts worldwide came when a group of local kids—many from low-income families—presented Reilly with handmade thank-you cards.
One young girl, echoing Reilly’s barefoot days, said shyly: “I want to be a setter like you someday.” Reilly knelt down, tears streaming freely now, and replied: “You already are. Just keep dreaming big.”
Videos of the exchange spread like wildfire. Millions viewed clips of Reilly embracing the children, her genuine warmth shining through. Fans flooded social media with #BergenGivesBack and “This is the Bergen Reilly we love!”—a phrase that trended globally.
“She’s not just the best setter—she’s the best person,” became a common refrain.
Reilly’s roots in Sioux Falls add profound depth to the act. Growing up in a close-knit family, she trained at this very court under modest conditions, often sharing equipment with dozens of others.
Her rise—from high school standout to Nebraska’s all-time assists leader and national sensation—has always been grounded in gratitude. This renovation honors that origin story, ensuring the next generation faces fewer barriers.
The impact extends far beyond bricks and nets. The scholarship program, funded indefinitely through Reilly’s foundation, covers fees, equipment, and transportation for underprivileged youth. “Volleyball changed my life,” Reilly explained. “It taught me discipline, teamwork, resilience. Every kid deserves that chance.”
Teammates and rivals alike praised her. Andi Jackson: “Bergen leads quietly but powerfully. This is her off the court.” Even opponents chimed in, with one Big Ten rival posting: “Class act. Respect.”
As Nebraska gears up for another title chase, Reilly’s act reminds everyone why she captivates fans: unmatched talent paired with unmatched heart. In a world of flashy NIL deals and viral moments, her quiet millions speak loudest.
Bergen Reilly didn’t just rebuild a court—she rebuilt hope. And in doing so, she proved once again: true greatness serves others.
The volleyball world—and hundreds of smiling kids in Sioux Falls—will never forget it.
