The thrill of competition, the rush of adrenaline, and the camaraderie of teamwork – these are just a few aspects that make college athletics an exciting and rewarding experience. For Augustana University, volleyball is one of the many sports that bring students, faculty, and the community together. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Augustana University volleyball, exploring the roster, team profile, and what makes this team tick.
A Brief History of Augustana University Volleyball
Augustana University, located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, has a rich athletic history that spans over a century. The university's volleyball program has been a staple of the institution's athletic department since its inception in the 1970s. Over the years, the team has experienced its fair share of triumphs and setbacks, but through it all, the Vikings have remained a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division II.
The Current Roster
As of the latest season, the Augustana University volleyball roster consists of a talented group of student-athletes from across the country. The team is led by a mix of veteran players and newcomers, each bringing their unique skills and strengths to the table.
Here's a snapshot of the current roster:
- Seniors: 5 players, including 2 outside hitters, 1 middle blocker, 1 setter, and 1 libero.
- Juniors: 4 players, including 2 outside hitters, 1 middle blocker, and 1 defensive specialist.
- Sophomores: 5 players, including 2 outside hitters, 1 middle blocker, 1 setter, and 1 libero.
- Freshmen: 6 players, including 2 outside hitters, 2 middle blockers, 1 setter, and 1 defensive specialist.
Team Profile
The Augustana University volleyball team is more than just a group of talented athletes – it's a tight-knit family that values teamwork, discipline, and hard work. Here are some key statistics that paint a picture of the team's profile:
- Head Coach: Since 2015, the team has been led by Head Coach, Jennifer Jacobs, who brings over 20 years of coaching experience to the table.
- NCAA Division: Augustana University competes in the NCAA Division II, which comprises 306 institutions across the country.
- Conference: The Vikings are members of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), which features 16 teams from the Midwest and Upper Midwest regions.
- Home Court: The team plays its home games at the Elmen Center, a state-of-the-art facility that seats over 4,000 fans.
- Team Colors: The Vikings' team colors are Navy Blue and Gold.
Season Highlights and Achievements
The Augustana University volleyball team has experienced its fair share of successes over the years. Here are some recent highlights and achievements:
- NSIC Tournament Appearances: The Vikings have appeared in the NSIC Tournament in 5 of the last 7 seasons, including a semifinal appearance in 2020.
- NCAA Tournament Appearances: Augustana University has made 2 NCAA Tournament appearances since 2015, including a first-round win in 2018.
- All-Conference Selections: The team has produced 15 All-Conference selections since 2015, including 5 First-Team All-NSIC honorees.
Individual Player Profiles
Let's take a closer look at some of the key players on the Augustana University volleyball roster:
- Outside Hitter: Junior, Player Name, has been a standout performer for the Vikings, earning All-Conference honors in 2020 and leading the team in kills per set.
- Middle Blocker: Senior, Player Name, has been a dominant force at the net, ranking among the top 5 in the NSIC in blocks per set.
- Setter: Sophomore, Player Name, has been a key contributor to the team's success, averaging over 9 assists per set and earning NSIC Setter of the Week honors in 2020.
Conclusion
The Augustana University volleyball team is a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division II. With a talented roster, experienced coaching staff, and a strong team culture, the Vikings are poised for success in the years to come. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for a new team to support, Augustana University volleyball is definitely worth watching.
Gallery of Augustana University Volleyball
FAQ Section
What is the Augustana University volleyball team's conference?
+The Augustana University volleyball team is a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).
Who is the head coach of the Augustana University volleyball team?
+The head coach of the Augustana University volleyball team is Jennifer Jacobs.
What is the name of the Augustana University volleyball team's home court?
+The Augustana University volleyball team plays its home games at the Elmen Center.