Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Decorated Diver Zhang Credits Coaches, Hard Work for Hall of Fame Career
10/14/2026 | 11:47:00 | Swimming & Diving, Swimming & Diving
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Former SIU diver Kaixuan "Sherry" Zhang Saluki Hall of Fame induction recognizes an accomplished career with the Salukis from 2012-16.
Zhang emerged as one of the top divers in program history during her four years at SIU. Her most notable achievement came at the NCAA Championships, where she placed third in the 3-meter springboard to earn All-America honors.
Zhang also earned All-Missouri Valley Conference honors and was named MVC Women's Diver of the Year in 2014, 2015 and 2016. She added multiple MVC Diver of the Week awards during her collegiate career.
One of Zhang's most memorable accomplishments came at a meet at Missouri, where she broke the Tigers' school record. According to Zhang, that record still stands today.
Her final MVC Championship, hosted by SIU, was another defining moment. Competing in her final conference meet as a Saluki, Zhang delivered one of the best performances of her career in front of a home crowd.
Throughout her four years at SIU, diving coach Joy Zhao played a significant role in Zhang's development.
"She is the best coach I have ever had, and her guidance played an essential role in my growth as an athlete," Zhang said. "Without her help, it would have been extremely difficult for me to achieve all of these accomplishments."
Zhang graduated from SIU in 2016 with degrees in media industry and advertising. She said her experience as a student-athlete taught her discipline, resilience and how to remain calm under pressure, lessons that continue to influence her life today.
"Being inducted into the Hall of Fame is an incredible honor for me," Zhang said. "It is not only recognition of my hard work and competition results during my college diving career, but also a tribute to every person who supported me along this journey, including my coach, teammates, family and the whole SIU Athletics department."
Zhang also shared a message for current Saluki student-athletes.
"Cherish every single practice and competition moment you have," Zhang said. "The hard work you put in now will become your most precious memories and lifelong strengths."
"I will always carry my Saluki pride with me, and I'm endlessly grateful for everything this university gave me," Zhang added.
