USA Beats Australia 13–12 at the Buzzer to Open Water Polo Exhibition Series

Team USA opened its June men’s water polo exhibition series with a dramatic 13–12 victory over Australia, sealed by a buzzer-beating goal at Mt. San Antonio College.

In front of a spirited California crowd, the match featured high-level physicality, sharp execution, and a back-and-forth scoring battle. Emerging star Ryder Dodd led the way with five goals, including the final shot that found the back of the net as time expired. Dodd was in San Francisco the night before to receive NCAA Water Polo’s highest honor, The Peter J. Cutino Award.

Australia jumped out to an early lead, but the Americans responded with strong second and third quarters. Contributions came from a balanced group including Chase Dodd,  Dominic Brown, Jake Ehrhardt, Hannes Daube, and Dylan Woodhead.

The final moments were tense. With the game tied at 12-12 and just seconds remaining, Team USA executed a set play that gave Dodd the final look. His buzzer-beater secured the one-goal win and gave the U.S. the early edge in the exhibition series.

Veteran goalkeeper Bernardo Herzer anchored the defense with 12 saves, helping stifle Australia’s attack in critical moments.

Game Highlights

• Final Score: USA 13–12 Australia

• Venue: Mt. San Antonio College, Walnut, CA

• Series: Men’s Exhibition Series Opener

• Top Scorer: Ryder Dodd (5 goals)

• Goalkeeper Saves: Bernardo Herzer (12)
  

What’s Next

The exhibition series continues June 11 at JSerra Catholic High School and wraps up June 13 at Chapman University in Orange, CA. These games offer critical prep time as Team USA continues building toward the LA28 Olympic Games.

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≡ THE 5-RING CIRCUS ≡

● Olympic Games 2024: Paris ● As the Paris 2024 organizing committee approaches shut-down on 17 June, the surplus from operations will be considerably larger than announced.

FrancsJeux.com reported a projected figure of about €76 million or about $86.86 million U.S., up from the original estimates of €26.8 million. Revenues were a little higher at €4.494 billion and expenses a little lower at €4.418 billion.

Former Paris 2024 chief Tony Estanguet said, “It’s money that goes to sport. It’s a legacy for sport. A very important legacy in a budgetary context that we know is very difficult.”

The French National Olympic Committee (CNOSF) will get 20% of this surplus, with 60% to go to the Paris 2024 legacy fund. The International Olympic Committee receives 20%, which may well end up assisting the French Alps 2030 Winter Games!

● Olympic Winter Games 2026: Milan Cortina ● If you ever wondered exactly what SiMiCo, the Italian government’s infrastructure company to support the 2026 Winter Games (and a lot more), its Commissioner, Fabio Saldini, summed it up in a single comment at the Sport Business Forum on Sunday in Cortina d’Ampezzo:

“We manage 3.4 billion euros of 96 works, 51 infrastructure 45 sports of which 31 are essential for the Olympics.

“46% of the works planned in Veneto, 23 in total, for a total value of 1,596,762,240.33 euros divided between 13 sports (261,433,134.61 euros) and 10 transport (1,335,329,105.72 euros).

“How is all this coordinated? I chose to deal with good people, high-level professionals, to live the territories and also share the contrasts. I chose to build a team, which is present in all the Olympic venues. We face reality for what it is, without excuses and giving the best of ourselves.

“We will be able to complete 100% of the planned sports works and all the essential infrastructure will be built – such as the roundabout of Bormio, Lot 0 of Cortina, Ponte Corona renovation – I realize that carrying out so many works in such a short time is not easy. I was appointed in February 2024; I understand that communities also have problems accepting the temporary inconvenience that is caused , I understand that those who are not satisfied with the administrative procedures appeal to the judiciary which is autonomous and independent and will decide what they want.

“I would just like to say that what we are doing is for the good of the territories, it is shared, and shows that it can be done in compliance with the times, costs and quality and will give rise to a territory different from the one that presented itself upon our arrival. It is not my job to say whether it is better or worse, it will certainly be different.”

Now you know.

● France ● The musical chairs in French sport following the 2024 Olympic Games have concluded for the time being, as former French Minister of Sport and the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Amelie Oudea-Castera, 47, will run unopposed to become the President of the French National Olympic Committee (CNOSF) in elections to be held on 19 June.

Her opponent, Didier Seminet, the head of the French Baseball and Softball Federation, withdrew on Saturday.

Paris 2024’s Director of Impact and Legacy, Marie Barsacq, moved from the organizing committee to become the French Sports Minister as of 23 December 2024.

● Athletics ● At the FBK Games in Hengelo (NED) on Monday, the headliner was Dutch star Femke Bol, the 2023 World Champion in the women’s 400 m hurdles, who won in 52.51 and broke her own meet record by more than a second.

But U.S. athletes also starred, with two-time World Champion Chase Jackson extending her world outdoor lead in the women’s shot, winning in 20.62 m (67-8), ahead of European Indoor champ Jessica Schilder (NED/20.16 m/66-1 3/4) and American Maggie Ewen (19.48 m/63-11).

World men’s 110 m hurdles leader Cordell Tinch of the U.S. won his race in 13.10 (wind 0), and Americans Chris Nilsen (men’s vault: 5.82 m/19-1) and Anavia Battle (women’s 200 m: 22.75 [-0.5]) also won.

Slovenia’s 2022 World Champion Kristjian Ceh beat Australia’s Olympic bronze winner Matt Denny in the men’s discus, 69.21 m (227-0) to 67.64 m (221-11) and women’s Tokyo Olympic Steeple champ Peruth Chemutai (UGA) moved to no. 3 in the world this year with a win in 9:07.79. Two-time Olympic silver winner Nicola Olyslagers (AUS) won the women’s high jump at 1.97 m (6-5 1/2).

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USA Track & Field will hold its Cross County National Championships in conjunction with the Nike Cross Nationals (NXN) in Portland, Oregon on 6-7 December.

This allows USATF to select its team for the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida, on 10 January 2026, a date which would normally be about when the USATF Cross Country meet is usually held.

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The Collegiate Track & Field/Cross Country Athlete Hall of Fame induction was held on Sunday in Eugene, Oregon, with a 12-member class that combined for an amazing 55 NCAA championships:

● Amy Acuff (UCLA 1994-97: high jump)
● Cathy Branta (Wisconsin 1981-85: distances)
● Bert Cameron (UTEP 1980-83: 400 m)
● Joaquim Cruz (Oregon 1983-84: 800 m)
● Joe Falcon, (Arkansas 1984-89: distances)
● Diane Guthrie (George Mason 1991-95: long jump-heptathlon)
● Larance Jones (Northeast Missouri State 1970-74/now Truman: 400 m)
● Madeline Manning (Tennessee State 1967-72: 800 m)
● Scott Nielson (Washington 1976-79: hammer)
● Suziann Reid (Texas 1996-99: 400 m)
● Gillian Russell (Miami (Fla.) 1992-95: 100 m hurdles)
● Forrest “Spec” Towns (Georgia 1934-37: 110 m hurdles)

This Hall of Fame was established in 2022; this is the fourth class.

● Swimming ● Another Summer McIntosh burner at the 2025 Canadian Trials in Victoria, winning the women’s 800 m Free in a sizzling 8:05.07, a national record, moving her to no. 2 in the world this year and the no. 3 performance of all-time. Only  American Katie Ledecky is faster, with her world-record swims in 2016 and 2025!

In the men’s 100 m Fly final, Ilya Kharun won over Josh Liendo, 50.37 to 50.46, moving to nos. 2-3 on the 2025 world list.

● Water Polo ● The U.S. men defeated Australia, 13-12, in a re-run from the Paris Olympic quarterfinals on Sunday at Mr. San Antonio College, in the first of a three-match exhibition set, on Ryder Dodd’s score with less than a second left.

Australia led, 4-1 and 7-5 after the first two periods, but the Americans scored five goals in the third for a 10-7 lead. Despite two more fourth-period goals from Dodd and older brother Chase Dodd, the Aussies tied it with 19 seconds left. Ryder Dodd’s heroics – and his fifth goal of the match – earned the U.S. the win.

Two more matches with Australia come on 11 June in San Juan Capistrano and 13 June at Orange, California.

● Wrestling ● The National Wrestling Hall of Fame class of 2025 was inducted in ceremonies in Stillwater, Oklahoma on Saturday:

● Darryl Burley: two-time NCAA champion at Lehigh
● Matt Lindland: Sydney 2000 Olympic Greco silver medalist
● Terry Steiner: USA Wrestling Women’s National Coach since 2002
● Greg Wojciechowski: NCAA Champion at Toledo

Special awards were given to 1992 Olympian Mark Coleman (Medal of Courage), Van Stokes, a USA Wrestling Board member since 1989 (Order of Merit), Ken Mara as Meritorious Official, and Vision Quest author Terry Davis (Outstanding American).

The Dave Schultz High School Excellence Award to four-time Ohio state champ Marcus Blaze, and the Tricia Saunders High School Excellence Award to four-time Tennessee state champion Piper Fowler.

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The Arizona track and field/cross country programs have a new head coach after more than two decades under the leadership of Fred Harvey.

Arizona has hired Virginia Tech associate head coach Andrew Dubs to take over the programs, the school announced Monday. Dubs has been with Virginia Tech for seven years with previously stops at Iowa, Harvard, North Carolina and Auburn.

“Coach Dubs brings a proven track record of success made possible by exemplary preparation,” Arizona athletic director Desireé Reed-Francois said in a statement. “His vision, energy, and commitment to student-athlete success—on the track and field, in the classroom, and in life—make him the right leader for the next chapter of Arizona Track & Field/Cross Country.”

Dubs has helped coach 79 NCAA Qualifiers, 32 individual All-Americans, 18 conference champions, and numerous all-conference selections during his tenure.

“This opportunity to lead Arizona into the future is a dream come true for me, and I’m honored to follow the legendary Coach Harvey,” Dubs said. “Coach Harvey has built Arizona into one of the top programs in the country and has had a historic career.

Dubs specializes in throwing, which are consistently some of Arizona’s top performing events. Dubs himself was a four-time Big East shot put champion at UConn.

Dubs inherits an Arizona program that placed in the middle of the pack at Big 12 Track and Field Championships.

Arizona will complete the 2024-25 season at the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Ore. this weekend. The Wildcats have 16 athletes headed to nationals.

The Minnesota State High School League’s inaugural Boys Volleyball State Tournament begins Tuesday, June 10 with the championship match set for Thursday, June 12. All 11 games will be played at Schoenecker Arena on the University of St. Thomas campus and streamed by NSPN.tv.

Here’s a look at the tournament schedule with notes about each of the eight qualifying teams.

Tuesday, June 10 — Quarterfinals

No. 6 St. Paul Central (21-5) vs. No. 3 Rogers (25-1), 11 a.m. — St. Paul Central prevailed in a dramatic fifth set against Eagan in its section final, 17-15. Rogers finished runner-up the last two years in state tournaments hosted by the MN Boys High School Volleyball Association. Senior Grant Anderson was named to the 2024 all-tournament team. The Royals haven’t lost since their season opener against St. Michael-Albertville, who they beat in a five-set section final.

No. 7 Hopkins (17-8) vs. No. 2 Eastview (27-3), 1 p.m. — Hopkins was swept twice by Wayzata in the regular season, but knocked off the Section 6A No. 1 seed Trojans in a five-set final. Eastview split two matches with top-seeded Eden Prairie, winning a best-of-three meeting on April 26 and falling in five a month later.

No. 5 North High School-North St. Paul (25-2) vs. No. 4 Spring Lake Park (23-7) — North has won 12 straight matches, including a best-of-three victory against Spring Lake Park on May 17. Senior Remi Xiong was on the MN Boys High School Volleyball Association’s all-tournament team last year after helping Spring Lake Park finish fourth.

No. 8 Park Center (13-8) vs. No. 1 Eden Prairie (24-2) — The No. 5 seed in its section, Park Center swept No. 1 Hmong College Prep Academy in the semifinals and outlasted No. 6 Roseville Area in a five-set final. Eden Prairie was ranked No. 3 by the Minnesota Boys Volleyball Coaches Association and took down No. 1 Bloomington Jefferson in a section final.

Wednesday, June 11

Consolation semifinals, 11 a.m.

Consolation semifinals, 1 p.m.

Semifinals, 3 p.m.

Semifinals, 5 p.m.

Thursday, June 12

Consolation final, 11 a.m.

Third place, 1:30 p.m.

Championship, 4 p.m. 

After Sunday’s opening clashes, the action kicked off in all the other groups on Monday in the men’s qualifiers for the 2026 European Water Polo Championships. Slovakia delivered the first upset as they beat Germany, while Georgia hit 41 goals against Bulgaria – an unusually high number, but perhaps not any longer in this new water polo played in a 25m field.

European Water Polo Championships
Men’s Qualifications, Day 2
Monday 9 June 2025

Group A (Kranj)

Great Britain 13-5 Czechia
Slovenia 13-11 Poland

Group B (Istanbul)

Germany 8-13 Slovakia
Sweden 16-13 Finland
Türkiye 12-13 Slovakia
Germany 30-3 Sweden

Group C (Tbilisi)

Switzerland 13-23 Israel
Georgia 41-10 Bulgaria

Group D (Gzira)

France 19-7 Portugal
Malta 13-11 Ukraine

Slovakia enjoyed a tremendous day in Istanbul as they landed six points from their two matches. First, they upset the Germans with a big 8-13 win, then in the evening they could also down host Türkiye in a nail-biter to take the pole position to qualify.

A devastating 0-5 run against the Germans did the damage in the middle two periods, as the Slovaks jumped to a 2-8 lead. The Germans then had a better spell, but Slovakia’s Adam Furman scored a crucial action goal to make it 7-10 and soon another double reset the five-goal gap, which the Slovaks maintained until the end.

They were back for more in the evening and kept their momentum against the Türks, as they stormed to a 0-4 lead in eight minutes. However, the home side started climbing back and with eight minutes to go they only trailed 8-9.

The Slovaks managed to respond well once more, as an early goal from Furman dashed their rivals’ hopes to go even, then, at 9-11, Patrik Tisaj’s double in 49 seconds made it 9-13. The Türks produced a late surge, but their final goal came in the last second, which was too late to save the match to a shootout.

The Germans bounced back from their earlier defeat with a devastating win against Sweden, who won the Nordic classic against Finland in the morning.

In Group A, Great Britain clinched a brilliant win over Czechia. Early in the second quarter, the Czechs led 3-5 – and few would have thought that in the remaining 21:47 minutes only the Brits would score goals. It happened, though, as Great Britain produced a devastating and clinical 10-0 run, completely shutting out the Czechs with some superb defending.

Hosts Slovenia had to overcome some headaches against Poland. The first half was not only balanced, but the Poles even led 5-6. The Slovenians then raised their game and started dominating in the third and once they took a three-goal lead, their win was never in danger.

Elsewhere, Tbilisi staged a scoring festival, as the two matches in Group C produced a mind-blowing 87 goals.

Israel pulled off an easy win against Switzerland, 23-13. Then came Georgia and Bulgaria and a staggering feast of 41 hits from the home side – they reached double digits in all four periods.

In Gzira, France opened their campaign with a comfortable cruising against Portugal. In contrast, Malta had to dig deep to claim all three points against Ukraine.

The hosts got off to the better start and held on to a three-goal lead for most of the first half. In the third, their concentration levels seem to drop, as the Ukrainians smelled blood, and with a fine man-up goal from Danylo Sokolov they came back to even in the last second of the third at 9-9.

What’s more, with 5:36 on the clock, they went 10-11 up, but Malta had more left in the tank for the finish. The home side hit back with a 3-0 run in the last four minutes, with Steven Camilleri leading the charge as usual, as the captain added two action goals late on to seal the win.

Watch all the action live on www.euroaquaticstv.com and stay up-to-date with all the results/tables by clicking here.

Gergely Csurka for European Aquatics

Benedictine Volleyball and head coach Victoria Hurtt is excited to announce the addition of several talented newcomers who will bring fresh energy and skills to the team. These athletes come from diverse backgrounds, each with unique strengths and a shared passion for the game. 

This year’s recruiting class features 19 incoming student-athletes who will join Coach Hurtt and the Ravens, who earned a 2024 Heart Conference Tournament Championship while qualifying for the program’s second straight appearance in the NAIA National Tournament.

Aubrey Wisker – 5’11” Outside Hitter (Denton, Texas) 
Aubrey Wisker brings a strong presence to the court as a versatile 5’11” Outside hitter. Hailing from Denton, Texas, Aubrey is known for her powerful play in the front row, where she can both terminate the ball and keep it in play when needed. Her positive attitude on and off the court, combined with her all-around skill set, make her a valuable asset to the team. Aubrey’s ability to play multiple roles with reliability and precision will no doubt contribute to the success of the Benedictine College volleyball program. 

Faith Schaper – 5’10” Middle Pin Hitter (Flower Mound, Texas) 
Faith Schaper, a 5’10” middle pin hitter from Flower Mound, Texas, is a consistent and intelligent player with a high volleyball IQ. Her calm demeanor and ability to understand the nuances of the game set her apart. As she continues to add explosiveness to her play, Faith will undoubtedly become a highly effective and dynamic presence on the court. 

Cibeles Bothwell – 5’6″ Libero (Spring, Texas) 
From Spring, Texas, Cibeles Bothwell is a dedicated 5’6″ libero who brings a wealth of defensive skill to the team. Her strong work ethic makes her an ideal leader on the court. Cibeles is a standout defensive specialist and serving expert, with a relentless passion for the sport. Her ability to read the game makes her an invaluable asset to the team, and we can expect her to be a great asset in the defensive lineup for years to come. 

Wren VanCleave – 5’9″ Setter (Bonner Springs, Kan.) 
Wren VanCleave, a 5’9″ setter from Bonner Springs, Kan., is a dedicated and hardworking athlete who thrives in a fast-paced environment. A great communicator and teammate, Wren excels in running a high-tempo offense that keeps opponents guessing. Her ability to move the ball efficiently and keep all players involved in the offense will be crucial to the team’s success. With her excellent court awareness and coachability, Wren is poised to make a lasting impact on the program. 

Peyton McAtee – 5’10” Right-Side (Lee’s Summit, Mo.) 
Peyton McAtee, a 5’10” pin hitter from Lee’s Summit, Mo., brings athleticism and a positive, team-first attitude to the court. With her long wingspan and raw potential, Peyton is capable of excelling as a right-side hitter in the future. Her coachability and eagerness to grow as a player make her a standout prospect, and we are excited to see how her game develops as she continues to mature in the program. 

Isabella Franco – 5’3″ Libero (Shawnee, Kan.) 
A true example of dedication and hard work, Isabella Franco is a 5’3″ libero from Shawnee, Kan., who embodies the spirit of a committed student-athlete. Isabella is known for her consistent and solid platform, combined with quick feet and an unyielding work ethic. Her positive attitude and drive to improve, both on the court and in the classroom, make her a well-rounded and promising player. Isabella’s energy and leadership will undoubtedly shine as she continues to develop as an essential part of the team. 

Audrey Franks – 5’11” Right-side Hitter (Hemet, Calif.) 
Audrey Franks, a 5’11” Right-Side from Hemet, Calif., is a high-quality hitter who takes a powerful approach and delivers a strong swing. Her ability to step up in crucial moments and her physicality on the court make her a force to be reckoned with. We look forward to watching Audrey’s continued development as she plays a key role in the success of Benedictine College volleyball. 

Lexi Dykes – 6’0″ Middle Blocker (Trenton, Texas) 
Lexi Dykes, a 6’0″ middle blocker from Trenton, Texas, brings a strong all-around game to the team. Lexi is a powerful player with excellent blocking skills and a strong swing. Her competitive nature, leadership qualities, and deep understanding of the game make her an essential asset to the team. We’re excited to see how Lexi will help anchor the front row and provide leadership on the court. 

Barbara Terra – 6’0″ Middle Blocker/Pin Hitter (Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil) 
Hailing from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Barbara Terra is a 6’0″ middle blocker and pin hitter who brings an international flair to the team. For Barbara, volleyball has been life-changing, opening up opportunities and offering a new perspective on the world. She is eager to continue learning and to showcase the potential that others have seen in her. With her powerful presence at the net and strong determination, Barbara will be a key player as she continues to develop in the program. 

Grace Black – 5’10” Outside Hitter (Omaha, Neb.) 
Grace Black, a 5’10” outside hitter from Omaha, Neb., is a consistent and adaptable player. No matter what challenges she faces, Grace always finds a way to put her best foot forward when it counts the most. A team player at heart, Grace is willing to play any position that benefits the team, always keeping a calm and quiet presence. Her positive leadership and flexibility make her an important and reliable part of the Benedictine College volleyball family. 

Mackenzi Briesacher – 5’7″ Setter (Edwardsville, Ill.) 
Mackenzi Briesacher, a 5’7″ setter from Edwardsville, Ill., is a smart and coachable player who excels in any position she is asked to play. Primarily a setter, Mackenzi is a hard worker who understands the game and is always looking to improve. Her willingness to contribute wherever needed and her dedication to her craft make her a valuable asset to the team. We look forward to watching Mackenzi continue to develop as a key player in the program. 

Lainee Mustain – 5’6″ Defensive Specialist/Libero (Lee’s Summit, Mo.) 
Lainee Mustain, a 5’6″ defensive specialist/libero, is one of the hardest workers on the team. Known for her leadership on the court, Lainee excels at serve receive, reading plays, and getting to the ball quickly. She is also a reliable setter when the team needs a second set of hands in the back row. Lainee’s commitment to constant improvement and her passion for the game make her a key piece of the defensive lineup. 

Jojo Vander Woude – 5’11” Middle Blocker (Nokesville, Va.) 
Jojo Vander Woude is a 5’11” middle blocker from Nokesville, Va., who is known for her strength and versatility. Jojo hits with power and precision, and she uses her intelligence to strategically place balls for points. Her excellent attitude, work ethic, and commitment to the team make her an invaluable member of the squad. We’re excited to see her continue to develop and contribute to the team’s success. 

Rayleen Gladden – 6’0″ Middle Blocker (Bentonville, Ark.) 
Rayleen Gladder, a 6’0″ middle blocker from Bentonville, Ark., is a true team player who will do whatever is asked of her. Rayleen is a great teammate with a strong work ethic and a willingness to develop and grow within the program. Her dedication to improving and her positive influence on the team make her a valuable asset. We believe that Rayleen has a bright future ahead and are excited to see how she progresses in her career here at Benedictine College. 

Reagan Demos – 5’6″ Defensive Specialist/Libero (Bakersfield, Calif.) 
Reagan Demos is a 5’6 defensive specialist from Bakersfield, Calif., Benedictine College is thrilled to welcome her to its volleyball program. Known for her exceptional ability to adapt and adjust her gameplay, Reagan brings both skill and determination to the court. Her sportsmanship, respect for others, and unwavering support for her teammates foster a positive and motivating atmosphere. We look forward to seeing Reagan make an impact on and off the court as she embarks on this exciting journey with the Ravens! 

Candance Lenzen – 6’0″ Middle Blocker (Hinckley, Minn.) 
Candance Lenzen, a talented 6’0″ middle blocker from Hinckley, Minn., to our volleyball program. With her height, agility, and strong defensive presence at the net, Candance is set to be a key asset for the Ravens. Beyond her physical abilities, she embodies the qualities of a dedicated and team-oriented athlete. Her work ethic, determination, and commitment to excellence make her a standout both on and off the court. She not only strengthens the team’s defense but also inspires those around her with her leadership and passion for the game. We are eager to see Candance’s impact this season and beyond as she begins her journey with the Ravens! 

Geme Ajekwu – 6’2″ Middle Blocker (Lawrence, Kan.) 
Geme Ajekwu, a 6’2″ middle blocker from Lawrence, Kan., is a strong addition to next year’s volleyball roster. A true all-around athlete, Geme brings versatility and drive to the court. Her competitive nature and desire to improve at her position make her a dynamic force with immense potential. Geme is just as impressive a leader in both the classroom and the gym. Her vibrant personality brings energy and joy to the team. We’re excited to see Geme’s growth and impact as she joins the Raven family! 

Kasey Lovar – 5’0″ Libero/DS (Odenton, Md.) 
Kasey Lovar, a 5’0″ libero/defensive specialist from Odenton, Md., to the volleyball program. Kasey brings heart, hustle, and a competitive edge to the court, along with a relentless drive to grow and succeed. Her encouraging spirit and team-first mentality make her an incredible teammate, always uplifting those around her and celebrating their successes as much as her own. Her strong sense of character, positive attitude, and team-oriented mindset make her an invaluable addition to the Ravens. We can’t wait to see the impact Kasey will make at Benedictine! 

Caroline Oppermann – 5’8″ Right-side (Houston, Texas) 
Caroline Oppermann, a dynamic and intelligent right-side, is known for her strength, speed, and court awareness. Caroline is a force at the net, reading plays quickly and executing with precision. She brings not only physical dominance but also a high volleyball IQ, making her a smart and strategic player in both blocking and attacking. We are thrilled to welcome Caroline to the Raven family and can’t wait to see her make an impact on and off the court! 

Benedictine finished the 2024 season with an overall record of 25-8 while posting a 13-4 record in the Heart of America Athletic Conference to earn second place. They hosted the Heart Tournament Championship, beating MNU in five sets to earn an automatic berth in the NAIA National Tournament. They traveled to California for the Opening Round, falling to The Master’s University.

www.ravenathletics.com | #UnleashGreatness | www.benedictine.edu