Wisconsin Volleyball Showcases New Lineup in Preseason Triumph
As the summer days wane and fall approaches, the Wisconsin volleyball program has already set an electrifying tone for what promises to be a thrilling 2024 season. On Tuesday, the Badgers previewed their new lineup in a powerful exhibition match against Bradley, leaving fans at the UW Field House buzzing with anticipation.
A New Era: Fresh Faces, Same Dominance
The exhibition match against Bradley was not just a routine preseason scrimmage; it was a statement. The Badgers, known for their relentless drive and competitive spirit, showcased a refreshed roster featuring six newcomers, each eager to make their mark on one of the nation’s most prestigious volleyball programs. The match ended in a decisive sweep—25-17, 25-22, 25-14—illustrating that while some players may be new, the Badgers’ dominance remains unchanged.
Freshmen Charlie Fuerbringer and Trinity Shadd-Ceres were among those who shined brightly on the court. Fuerbringer, stepping into the pivotal role of setter, orchestrated the team’s offense with precision, while Shadd-Ceres demonstrated her prowess as an outside hitter. Their contributions were crucial in propelling Wisconsin to an 11-4 scoring run that sealed the first set in their favor.
Overcoming Challenges: Resilience in Action
The second set brought its own set of challenges, as Bradley, determined to turn the tide, surged ahead early. However, the Badgers remained unfazed. Senior CC Crawford and junior Devyn Robinson, both seasoned veterans, executed a series of momentum-shifting plays that ultimately swung the set back in Wisconsin’s favor. The Badgers clinched the set 25-22, a testament to their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
The third set saw the Badgers’ offense firing on all cylinders. Carter Booth, a towering presence in the middle, led the attack with 12 kills, while the ever-reliable Sarah Franklin, regarded as one of the best outside hitters in the country, added 10 kills. Shadd-Ceres continued to impress with nine kills, capping off a stellar collegiate debut. This balanced offensive onslaught left Bradley scrambling to respond, as Wisconsin secured an 11-point victory to close out the match.
A Team Poised for Greatness
As Wisconsin gears up for the regular season, the excitement is palpable. The Badgers’ next challenge is a formidable one: an opening match against the sixth-ranked University of Louisville at the KFC Yum! Center on August 27. This high-stakes encounter is sure to test the mettle of the Badgers early on, providing a benchmark for what this new-look team can achieve.
Leading the charge for Wisconsin are team captains Sarah Franklin, Devyn Robinson, and Julia Orzol. Each brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a burning desire to push the team further than ever before. Franklin, in particular, has been vocal about the team’s chemistry and work ethic, both of which have been honed through countless hours of practice and preparation. “It’s exhilarating to be back with the team,” Franklin said in a post-match interview. “Each day of practice brings us closer together, and competing against another team really highlights the hard work we’ve put in. It’s a fantastic feeling to be back.”
Eyes on the Prize: A Season of High Expectations
The Badgers are no strangers to success, and the 2024 season is already brimming with high expectations. Wisconsin recently secured the No. 3 spot in the 2024 Preseason American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) top 25 rankings, underscoring their status as one of the premier programs in the country. But with this ranking comes the pressure to perform, a challenge that the Badgers seem more than ready to embrace.
One of the key storylines of the season will undoubtedly be Wisconsin’s quest to return to the Final Four after last year’s heartbreaking loss to Texas in the semifinals. The defeat has only fueled the team’s desire to reclaim their place at the pinnacle of collegiate volleyball. On September 1, they will have the opportunity to face Texas once again, this time at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum. This match is not just a chance for redemption but a litmus test for the Badgers’ championship aspirations.
The Road Ahead: Navigating a Competitive Landscape
While the Badgers have set their sights on a return to the AIAW/NCAA Tournament semifinals, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The collegiate volleyball landscape is as competitive as ever, with numerous teams vying for a shot at the national title. However, Wisconsin’s blend of seasoned veterans and talented newcomers gives them a unique edge.
The leadership of head coach Kelly Sheffield, who has been at the helm since 2013, cannot be understated. Sheffield has built a program rooted in excellence, where each player is encouraged to reach their full potential. His ability to adapt and evolve the team’s strategy with each season has been a key factor in Wisconsin’s sustained success.
The Fans: The Badgers’ Secret Weapon
No discussion of Wisconsin volleyball would be complete without mentioning the role of the fans. The UW Field House has long been known as one of the most intimidating venues in college volleyball, thanks in large part to the passionate support of the Badger faithful. Their energy and enthusiasm create a home-court advantage that few teams can match. As the season progresses, this support will be crucial in propelling the Badgers through tough matches and towards their ultimate goal.
As the 2024 season gets underway, the Wisconsin Badgers have already made it clear that they are a force to be reckoned with. Their strong showing in the exhibition match against Bradley is just the beginning of what promises to be a memorable season. With a potent mix of veteran leadership, emerging talent, and a relentless drive to succeed, the Badgers are well-positioned to make a deep run in the postseason and perhaps, bring home another championship to Madison.
The journey ahead is long and fraught with challenges, but one thing is certain: this Wisconsin team has the talent, the tenacity, and the support to achieve greatness. All eyes will be on the Badgers as they embark on what could be a historic season.
