Utah Valley Volleyball: A Look Ahead to the 2025 Season
The anticipation is building! Utah Valley University (UVU) Wolverines’ head women’s volleyball coach, Sam Atoa, recently unveiled the schedule for the 2025 season, promising a thrilling mix of in-state rivalries and challenging non-conference matchups. Let’s dive into what fans can expect and what this signals for the future of UVU volleyball.
In-State Showdowns and Postseason Tests
The schedule is packed with games against in-state rivals, guaranteeing intense competition. Home matches against Utah State and BYU are sure to draw big crowds. Beyond the state borders, the Wolverines will face formidable opponents, including teams that tasted postseason success last year. The schedule features four teams that competed in the NCAA Tournament and two that participated in the National Invitational Volleyball Championship (NIVC). This level of competition provides valuable experience and tests the team’s mettle.
Did you know? Matching up against strong teams from across the country can boost UVU’s ranking and provide a higher probability of participating in the NCAA tournament.
Key Games to Watch
The season kicks off with the Utah Valley Invitational, a home tournament that will set the tone for the year. The opening weekend features matches against Montana and Navy, as well as a regional clash against Boise State. The road trip to Hawaii for the Outrigger Invitational will be another significant test, with games against San José State, St. John’s, and the host, Hawaii. These games are a great opportunity for the Wolverines to showcase their skills against nationally recognized programs.
Pro tip: Check out the UVU athletics website for ticket information and game day promotions. Supporting the team is key to their success!
The WAC Conference and Tournament
The Western Athletic Conference (WAC) schedule, featuring home-and-home series, provides the backbone of UVU’s conference play. UVU will kick off WAC play at home against Abilene Christian and Tarleton State, followed by a home match against the defending WAC Champions, UT Arlington. A highlight of the season will be the WAC Tournament, which UVU will host at Lockhart Arena. Winning the tournament would guarantee an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, an achievement the team is undoubtedly striving for.
Looking Ahead: Building a Program
Coach Atoa’s approach emphasizes building on past successes and setting high expectations. The emphasis on a challenging schedule, and focusing on player development, points towards a bright future for UVU volleyball. By focusing on developing its team, and cultivating a winning mentality, the Wolverines are setting the stage for long-term success in the competitive world of collegiate volleyball.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does the 2025 season start? The home opener is set for Friday, August 29th, against Montana.
Where can I buy tickets? Ticket information will be available on the UVU Athletics website.
What conference is UVU in? Utah Valley University is part of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).
What are your predictions for the upcoming season? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
