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Mitch Garver 2025

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Mitch Garver 2025

Mitch Garver has carved out a reputation as one of the most dynamic catchers and designated hitters in modern baseball. Since bursting onto the Major League scene in 2017, he’s combined power at the plate with an unorthodox catching stance that immediately drew attention.

Fans know him for towering home runs and a laid-back, approachable personality off the field. As he enters the 2025 season with the Seattle Mariners, Garver’s journey-from a dual-sport high school star in Albuquerque to a Silver Slugger Award winner and World Series champion-offers both inspiration and entertainment.

Mitch Garver’s Biography

Detail Information
Full Name Mitchell Lynn Garver
Date of Birth January 15, 1991
Age 34 years
Education La Cueva High School; University of New Mexico
Nationality American
Height 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
Weight 220 lb (99 kg)
Turned Pro Drafted in 2013 (9th round by Minnesota Twins)
MLB Debut August 19, 2017
Net Worth $10 million
Salary $11.5 million (base), $12.5 million total
Career Earnings $33.6 million
Wife Dr. Sarah Garver
Instagram @mgarver
Twitter @MitchGarver

Early Career

Mitch Garver’s journey to the big leagues began in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he grew up as a standout two‐sport athlete at La Cueva High School. From the moment he picked up a baseball glove, Garver showed an uncanny feel for the bat, and by his junior year he was leading his team to state championships both on the mound and in the outfield.

At the same time, he anchored his school’s soccer team as a center back, helping secure a second straight state title with his steady defensive play. Coaches and scouts alike took notice of Garver’s athleticism and competitive drive, but despite an offer to pursue soccer in England, he chose to focus on baseball-a decision driven by childhood dreams of one day playing in the majors.

Garver accepted a scholarship to the University of New Mexico, where he immediately made an impact for the Lobos. He split time between catcher and first base, but it was his left‐handed swing that drew most of the attention.

Over three collegiate seasons, he refined his approach at the plate, learning to work counts, drive the ball to all fields and pull the trigger on fastballs in the zone. Each summer he further tested his skills in wood‐bat competition, most notably with the Hyannis Harbor Hawks of the Cape Cod Baseball League.

There, he polished his power stroke against some of the nation’s top pitching prospects, earned league all‐star honors and was even named MVP-credentials that put him firmly on the radar of Major League scouts.

The Minnesota Twins selected Garver in the ninth round of the MLB Draft. He signed with a modest bonus and reported to the Elizabethton Twins in rookie ball, where he wasted no time flashing the raw power that would become his trademark.

Even as a newcomer to professional pitching, he displayed above‐average plate discipline, drawing walks and barreling balls deep into the outfield gaps. Coaches in Elizabethton worked with him on framing and blocking, laying the groundwork for his eventual transformation into one of the game’s most intriguing receiver prospects.

Professional Career

Since his Major League debut in August 2017, Mitch Garver steadily evolved from a late‐season call‐up into one of baseball’s premier power‐hitting backstops. The Twins promoted him on August 18, 2017, and he made his first appearance the next day, finishing his rookie showing with a .196 average and three RBIs across 23 games.

Garver broke camp as Minnesota’s primary backup catcher and hit his first career homer on April 5. Over 103 games he slashed .268/.335/.414 with seven home runs and cemented himself as a formidable right‐handed bat while sharing duties behind the plate.

Garver’s offensive breakout. Despite missing six weeks after spraining his left ankle in a May home‐plate collision with Shohei Ohtani, he returned to club a total of 31 homers in just 311 at‐bats, adding 67 RBIs and earning the American League Silver Slugger Award for catchers.

 His blend of patient plate discipline and raw power made him one of the game’s most dangerous hitters against fastballs, and his prowess contributed to the Twins setting a new single‐season home run record that year.

Garver’s momentum was stalled by injuries in the pandemic‐shortened 2020 campaign. He appeared in only 23 games due to a right intercostal strain, batting .167/.247/.264 before the season ended early.

He rebounded posting a .256 average with 13 home runs in 68 games even as he dealt with a groin contusion, back tightness and the birth of his first child. On July 27, 2021, he etched his name in the history books by hitting a grand slam the same day opposing catcher Eric Haase did, marking the first time two catchers on opposing teams each hit slams in one game.

Wife

Mitch Garver is married to his high-school sweetheart, Dr. Sarah Garver, whom he met in their sophomore year at La Cueva High School in Albuquerque.

Mitch Garver his wife Dr. Sarah Garver

Sarah earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Oregon State University in 2018 and practices small-animal medicine. They wed on December 19, 2015, and have two children together: their daughter Gamble Lynn, born July 22, 2021, and a second child born in late 2023.

The Garvers share two dogs-Chupi and Rip-and in 2021 established an endowed scholarship at Oregon State’s veterinary college in memory of their late boxer, Benny. Sarah maintains a private Instagram account under the handle @jogster while balancing her veterinary career with family life.

Mitch Garver’s Net Worth Details

Mitch Garver’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million as of 2025.

Contract

Mitch Garver signed a two-year, $24 million guaranteed contract with the Seattle Mariners on December 28, 2023. The agreement carries a $2 million signing bonus and stipulates base salaries of $10.5 million in 2024 and $11.5 million in 2025, resulting in $11.5 million total cash each season after proration. Additionally, the deal includes a mutual option for the 2026 season worth $12 million, with a $1 million buyout if the option is not exercised.

Salary

Mitch Garver’s 2025 salary pays him a base of $11.5 million, plus a $1 million prorated signing bonus for a total payroll value of $12.5 million. That compensation ranks him as the fifth–highest–paid catcher in Major League Baseball for the season.

Career Earnings

Year Earnings
2013 $40,000
2017 $131,535
2018 $547,500
2019 $575,000
2020 $229,630
2021 $1,875,000
2022 $3,335,000
2023 $3,900,000
2024 $11,500,000
2025 $11,500,000
Total $33,633,665

Endorsements

Mitch Garver’s approachable personality and family-first image have led to several regional and national endorsement partnerships. He remains tied to OMNI Brewing through his “Garv Sauce” branded lager, a nod to his swing that first launched during his Twins years.

Garver also collaborates with a leading glove manufacturer on a signature catcher’s mitt line and appears in MLB’s youth baseball clinic campaigns, helping coach kids on fundamentals.

Off the diamond, he’s teamed up with a pet-care brand-reflecting his and his wife’s veterinary background-to promote responsible pet ownership.

MLB Career Stats

Statistic Total
Games Played (GP) 579
At Bats (AB) 1,827
Runs (R) 258
Hits (H) 430
Doubles (2B) 87
Triples (3B) 6
Home Runs (HR) 97
Runs Batted In (RBI) 281
Walks (BB) 241
Hit by Pitch (HBP) 24
Strikeouts (SO) 564
Stolen Bases (SB) 3
Caught Stealing (CS) 2
Batting Average (AVG) .235
On-Base Percentage (OBP) .330
Slugging Percentage (SLG) .449
On-Base Plus Slugging (OPS) .779

FAQs

1. What is Mitch Garver’s birthplace and early athletic background?

Mitch Garver was born on January 15, 1991, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He attended La Cueva High School, where he excelled as both a catcher on the baseball team and a center back in soccer. Despite a coach’s suggestion to pursue soccer in England, Garver chose to focus on baseball and helped his high school teams win state championships in both sports as a junior.

2. Which college did Mitch Garver attend, and what records did he set there?

Garver played college baseball at the University of New Mexico, where he became the program’s all-time Iron Man by starting 181 consecutive games. In his senior season, he hit .390 with six home runs and 68 RBIs, recorded a 26-game hitting streak, and earned Mountain West Co-Player of the Year honors and two consecutive Johnny Bench Award finalist nods.

3. How did Mitch Garver begin his professional MLB career?

Garver progressed through the Twins’ minor league system. He made his major league debut on August 19, 2017, as a pinch hitter and recorded his first hit the following day. He soon became the Twins’ primary catcher and finished his rookie year with a .268 batting average over 103 games.

4. Which MLB teams has Mitch Garver played for to date?

Garver spent the first six seasons of his career with the Minnesota Twins (2017–2022), then signed with the Texas Rangers for the 2023 season, contributing to their World Series title. In December 2023, he joined the Seattle Mariners, where he serves as a catcher and designated hitter, wearing jersey number 18.

5. What are Mitch Garver’s career batting statistics through early 2025?

Garver has compiled a career batting average of .235, hit 97 home runs, and driven in 283 runs. He bats and throws right-handed, stands 6 feet 1 inch tall, and weighs 220 pounds. His career on-base plus slugging percentage sits near .782, reflecting his power and plate discipline.

6. What made Mitch Garver’s 2019 season a breakout year?

Garver hit a career-high 31 home runs and drove in 67 runs over 311 at-bats, earning him the American League Silver Slugger Award for catchers. His power display placed him among the league leaders for home runs by a catcher, and his performance solidified his reputation as one of the game’s premier offensive backstops.

7. What significant injuries has Mitch Garver faced, and how did they affect him?

Garver has battled several injuries, including a left high-ankle sprain sustained in May 2019 that sidelined him for weeks, a right intercostal strain in the shortened 2020 season, and groin and lower-back issues in 2021. These setbacks limited his playing time and production in affected seasons but did not derail his overall career trajectory.

8. Which awards and honors has Mitch Garver earned throughout his baseball career?

Garver’s accolades include multiple minor-league honors-MiLB.com Organization All-Star and Arizona Fall League All-Prospect Team-and the Twins’ Charles O. Johnson Most Improved Award in 2019. At the major-league level, he won the American League Silver Slugger for catchers in 2019 and became a World Series champion with the Texas Rangers in 2023.

9. What contract details define Mitch Garver’s tenure with the Seattle Mariners?

Garver signed a two-year, $24 million contract with the Seattle Mariners in December 2023, covering the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with a mutual option for 2026. His 2024 salary was in excess of $10 million, reflecting his established track record as a power-hitting catcher.

10. What is known about Mitch Garver’s personal life off the field?

He and his partner welcomed their first child in 2021. Off the field, he maintains an active presence on social media, sharing insights into family life and community involvement. He has also been recognized for academic achievements, earning Academic All-Mountain West honors four times during college.

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Bentley draws #6 seed in NCAA Quarterfinals

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WALTHAM, Mass. – Shortly after winning its third consecutive NCAA DII East Regional Championship, the Bentley volleyball team was named the #6 seed for the NCAA Quarterfinals at the Sanford Pentagon in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

The Falcons take on #3 Point Loma Thursday, Dec. 11, at 12 p.m. (EST).

Bentley returns to the site of the 2024 NCAA Quarterfinals, where the Falcons made volleyball history. Bentley became the first #8 seed to beat the #1 seed when it outlasted Ferris State in five sets.

Bentley is the only program to reach the NCAA Quarterfinals in each of the past three seasons.  

A preview of Bentley’s 2025 NCAA Quarterfinals appearance will be published later this week.

 



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Rams place second in 2A state volleyball tourney | Local Sports

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Women’s Lacrosse Brings On 12 New Faces for 2026-27 Academic Year

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RIVERDALE, NY – Manhattan Women’s Lacrosse Head Coach Jenna Dingler has announced 12 additions to the Jaspers program ahead of the 2026-27 academic year, on Monday afternoon. These names include Mary Kate Cappiello, Gianna Cirelli, Gianna Felicetti, Maddie Francis, Gwen Gyurovits, Molly McCann, Maggie Piatt, Kennedy Poser, Ellie Scardina, Gabrielle Sohngen, Morgan Rodoff, and Capri Valentino.

Mary Kate Capiello – Midfield – Drexel Hill, PA

Prior to College: Four years of varsity lacrosse at Bonner Prendie Catholic High School … Stands at 92 goals and over 100 career assists … Four Time All-Catholic Selection … Played basketball, field hockey, track, and soccer as well at the varsity level … Team Captain for both basketball and lacrosse … Four years of student council.

Why Cappiello Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan for the welcoming community and the way it felt like home right when I got to campus. I love both the coaches and atmosphere here.” 

Dingler Quote: “Mary Kate is a versatile, athletic midfielder who brings a competitive edge and toughness to the midfield.”

Gianna Cirelli – Midfield – Mahopac, NY

Prior to College: Played three years of varsity lacrosse at Mahopac High School … Tallied 87 goals, 101 ground balls, 27 assists, and 63 draw controls in her ongoing career … Also been a varsity cheerleader, track runner, and tennis player … All-Section and All-League selections … Honor Roll first three years of high school.

Why Cirelli Chose Manhattan: “I chose to go to Manhattan University to play Division I women’s lacrosse because I love the beautiful campus and the supportive community it offers. Manhattan offers amazing opportunities to student-athletes, such as amazing training facilities and coaching to strong acadmemic support. This helps me balance both my academics and sports. Their psychology program is known to be amazing which will challenge and inspire me to grow both on and off the field. Manhatttan felt like the perfect place to call home while being able to pursue my passion for lacrosse and getting a great education, along with making lifelong friends.”

Dingler Quote: “Gianna is a small, but mighty attacker out of Mahopac High. She will bring speed, skill, and a high-level of playmaking ability to the offensive end.” 

Gianna Felicetti – Attack – Lindenhurst, NY

Prior to College: Two seasons of varsity lacrosse at Kellenberg Memorial High School … Accumulated 70 draw controls, 25 goals, and 20 assists … Honor Roll student … Played at the club level for Long Island Top Guns. 

Why Felicetti Chose Manhattan: “I love the atmosphere, coaches, campus, and location.”  

Dingler Quote: “Gianna will bring size, power, and versatility to both the offense and the draw circle.”

Maddie Francis – Attack – Simsbury, CT

Prior to College: Four years of varsity lacrosse from Simsbury High School … Netted over 100 career points … CIAC Class L State Champions in the spring of 2025 with Simsbury … First Team All-State and CCC All-Conference past two seasons … High Honor Roll and AP Scholar.

Why Francis Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan because I loved the lacrosse program and absolutely fell in love with the campus! I love having all the opportunities that Manhattan offers me!” 

Dingler Quote: “Maddie will come in as a creative attacker, bringing quickness, vision, and playmaking ability to our offense.”

Gwen Gyurovits – Attack – Voorheesville, NY

Prior to College: Five years of varsity lacrosse at Voorheesville High School … Accumulated 130 goals and 96 assists for a total of 226 points … Three-Time First-Team Colonial Council All-Star … Times Union Athlete of the Week … Also played two years of varsity soccer.

Why Gyurovits Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan because the coaches along with the players on the team had great energy and made me feel very welcome when I first met them. The campus and its location was appealing. Along with the campus, I loved the city environment around it.”

Dingler Quote: “Coming in as a dynamic draw specialist and midfielder, Gwen adds strength, skill, and fierce competitiveness to our unit.”

Molly McCann – Goalkeeper – Hatboro, PA

Prior to College: Played varsity lacrosse at Upper Moreland High School … Recorded over 100 career saves in her first season as goalkeeper … Breakout Player of the Year (2024) … Member of National Honors Society … Top 9% of graduating class. 

Why McCann Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan University because overall it was such a great fit for me. The campus is beautiful in a perfect location, a good mixture of the neighborhood of Riverdale and a 35 minute subway to Times Square and just over 90 minutes from my home. Manhattan was filled with such friendly people walking on campus, professors, coaches, and teammates. Manhattan is very well known for their engineering program which I want to pursue in college, as they just got a new building for engineering! Being a part of a great conference like the MAAC, I’m looking forward to my upcoming years at Manhattan!”

Dingler Quote: “As a lifelong lacrosse player, Molly brings energy, competitiveness, and a steady presence between the pipes. She will be ready to make an immediate impact.” 

Maggie Piatt – Attack – Indianapolis, IN

Prior to College: Four years of varsity lacrosse at Bishop Chatard High School … Led the state in assists, led team for last three seasons in both goals and assists … All-Conference and All-Area selection … Honorable Mention All-State … National Honors Society member and Honor Roll selection. 

Why Piatt Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan for the diversity, as well as a new experience away from home.”

Dingler Quote: “Maggie brings size, power, and versatility to the offense and draw circle.” 

Kennedy Poser – Midfield – Monmouth Beach, NJ

Prior to College: Two years of varsity lacrosse at Ranney School … Tacked on 76 goals, 74 ground balls, 14 assists, 128 draw controls, and 33 forced turnovers … Shore conference Leader in goals scored and draw controls (2025) … First-Team Independence Division (2025).

Why Poser Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan because I wanted to both be in the city and play lacrosse.” 

Dingler Quote: “Coming in as a skilled, competitive midfielder, Kennedy brings speed, talent, and a strong work ethic.” 

Ellie Scardina – Defense – Farmingdale, NY

Prior to College: Played varsity lacrosse at both Farmingdale and Saint Dominic High School in Oyster Bay … Two-time All-League … Accumulated 31 caused turnovers, 22 goals, and 16 assists … Varsity starter since freshman season … Two-time scholar athlete.

Why Scardina Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan because I love the atmosphere and the welcoming I got when I first stepped onto campus, it felt like home.” 

Dingler Quote: “Coming in as a tough and talented defender, Ellie brings grit, discipline, and a lockdown presence to the defense.” 

Gabrielle Sohngen – Defense – Port Jefferson Station, NY

Prior to College: Four years of varsity lacrosse at Comsewogue High School … Anchored the defense for her team in that time … Unsung Hero Award and Warrior Award … Also plays varsity field hockey … National Honors Society member.

Why Sohngen Chose Manhattan: “I chose to attend Manhattan University because of the atmosphere and people. The team dynamic is amazing and it felt like home to me. The teammates, coaches, and staff all made me feel so welcomed. I love that the classes are smaller which enables me to get more individualized instruction and enforces a better learning environment.”

Dingler Quote: “Being a hardworking defender, Gabrielle adds toughness, determination, and a team-first approach.” 

Morgan Rodoff – Defense – Lansdale, PA

Prior to College: Four years of varsity lacrosse at North Penn High School … All-League Suburban One … Honor Roll selection.

Why Rodoff Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan for the location, the academics, and the super welcoming team and coaching staff.”

Dingler Quote: “Steady and strong, Morgan brings good energy, a relentless work ethic, and a commanding defensive presence.” 

Capri Valentino – Attack – Allentown, NJ

Prior to College: Four years of varsity lacrosse and team captain at Notre Dame High School in Lawrence, NJ … Career statistics include 137 goals, 121 assists for a total of 258 points, along with 50 ground balls, 16 draw controls, and three forced turnovers … All-Trentonian Attacker of the Year … All-CVC First-Team … Honor Roll selection.

Why Valentino Chose Manhattan: “I chose Manhattan because I loved the coaching staff, and I’ve been going to NYC since I was little and I cannot wait to live there. I’m super excited to be a part of the lacrosse program, it seemed like a family and I can’t wait to take part in the team bonding.”

Dingler Quote: “A highly decorated attacker, Capri brings creativity, precision, and a pure scorer’s mindset. Her vision of the attack will add a ton of value to our offensive unit.” 

Follow Manhattan Women’s Lacrosse on X (@ManhattanWLax) and Instagram (@ManhattanWLacrosse_). 



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Vixen Volleyball Serves Up Comeback Season • Sweet Briar College

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Starting in August, Williams Gym welcomed back the sound of balls bouncing, sneakers squeaking, and the scoreboard buzzing as Vixen volleyball returned to Sweet Briar.

Previously active from 1979-2010, the volleyball program saw success on the court with three student-athletes named to the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) All-Conference Team in 1995, 2001, and 2002. In spring 2025, Vixen Athletics announced the return of the program, giving new life to volleyball at Sweet Briar. To lead that charge, AJ Escobar was tapped to serve as head coach.

Girl hits volleyball Mila Mutabdzija ’28 returns the ball.“Our goal was to try and get 1% percent better every day. We focused on small statistical increments and really understanding what volleyball means to Sweet Briar,” Escobar said.

Starting a new program involves facing numerous challenges, chief among them recruiting a team and preparing for competition. In lieu of taking a year to plan and recruit, Escobar jumped right in to start a season of independent competition. This year’s roster was composed of 12 student-athletes, including returning students, incoming first years, and transfers. Escobar, accompanied by Gracyn Wright ’28, came to Sweet Briar from St. Andrews University following the announcement of the university’s closure.

“From the moment he arrived on campus, Coach Escobar has shown exactly the kind of vision, energy, and resilience we were looking for to bring volleyball back to Sweet Briar,” said Director of Athletics Donna Meyer Hodgert ’89. “He has faced every obstacle head-on—from a roster of largely inexperienced athletes to jumping straight into NCAA competition without a recruiting year—and he’s done it with unwavering positivity. Coach Escobar’s determination, and belief in our student-athletes have already reenergized our program and laid a foundation for the future of Sweet Briar volleyball.”

When looking at the current student body to fill out the team’s roster, Escobar sought out athletes that understand Sweet Briar and know what it means to be a Vixen.

“Many on the team were already a part of the College. They know how the school runs, they know what’s expected, and they know how to be a part of Sweet Briar,” Escobar said. “That was my biggest thing when I was holding tryouts in August, finding athletes that fit those criteria. We also benefited from students who brought true athleticism to the team.”

Among those who joined the team as a returning student was Clara Delattre ’25, a senior leader on campus who brought a lot of assistance to Escobar and the team. The comeback season featured a full schedule of 21 games, offering the Vixens many opportunities to strengthen their skills and build the foundation of the program.

“Rebuilding the volleyball team has been an incredible experience,” said Rachael Hunt ’29. “I met an amazing group of girls, forged strong bonds that I’ve never found anywhere else, and my athletic capabilities were explored in ways that have been unique to this team.”

Volleyball players block ball Two Vixens block a shot from the opposing team.For Escobar, the main focus of the season, and the program long-term, is to build competitiveness. While the team didn’t earn any wins during its inaugural season, they saw consistent and impressive improvement, including a 31% decrease in average reception errors and a 49% increase in digs per game from the first seven games to their last seven games. Looking ahead, Escobar has an ambitious three-year plan, from securing a conference win next year to making the ODAC tournament by their fourth season back.

“In three years, I’d love to be established in the ODAC as a fierce team, having a consistent and competitive atmosphere,” he said. “The support from Donna Hodgert, Brian Hensley, Nicole Schimmenti, our athletic trainers, and everyone in Athletics, as well as President Hutson, throughout a chaotic start was absolutely amazing and fantastic. I’m very appreciative of them. They do their jobs very well. Thank you.”





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Introducing Vandal Volleyball’s Fall Signees, Gabby Marshall & Zola Zuccolo

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MOSCOW, Idaho – As they prepare for the upcoming season, Idaho Volleyball continues to strengthen the foundation of the program’s culture. The additions of incoming freshmen Gabby Marshall and Zola Zuccolo reflect the commitment head coach Romana Redondo Kriskova and her staff have made to bringing in athletes who elevate the standard through both mindset and character. 

Coming off of a season with a team composed mostly of athletes in their first tear in black and gold, Idaho finished with one of the more successful campaigns since the program’s most recent conference championship appearance in 2018. For a program on a rise unseen in recent years, Marshall and Zuccolo are the next pieces to pursue Idaho’s return to the postseason. 

MEET GABBY

An incoming freshman middle blocker from Hershey, Pa, Marshall is one of two newcomers joining the Vandals’ 2026 roster. She spent four years competing with Fusion Volleyball Club and was a three-year starter at Hershey High School, where she established herself as a dominant presence at the net on both offense and defense.

The 6’2″ middle brings tremendous length to the net, posting an 8’2″ standing reach and a 10-foot flat approach jump. Her size, paired with strong timing and anticipation, allows her to consistently shut down opponents’ attacks, disrupt offensive rhythm, and anchor the defense.

Marshall is also engaged in service, volunteering with Special Olympics and initiatives supporting students with developmental delays or additional needs. Academically, she plans to major in Biology and pursue a Bachelor of Science degree.

“I’ve always loved the quote “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard,'” said Marshall. “What drew me to Idaho was just how different it was from all the other colleges I had offers from. The team and the coaches were exactly what I was looking for. I’m so excited to be a Vandal that it still feels a little weird saying it.”

MEET ZOLA

Coming to Idaho from Beaverton, Oregon, Zuccolo brings strong club and high-school experience, adding depth to the setter position. She was a two-year varsity starter at Jesuit High School, helping lead the program to the 6A State Championship and an undefeated 12–0 league record. After her senior season, she earned OSAA First Team All-State honors. Zuccolo also competed with Athena Volleyball Academy, where she played on the 18 Gold National Team.

Zuccolo had an outstanding high school career, capped by an even stronger senior season at Jesuit. As the Crusaders’ setter, she recorded 567 assists, ranking among the top five totals in the state of Oregon. She also added 143 digs, 44 service aces, and 22 total blocks. Her offensive impact and all-around consistency position her well to make a strong transition at the collegiate level.

FOLLOW THE VANDALS

To stay up to date with Vandal Volleyball, follow the team on Instagram (vandalvolleyball), X (IdahoVolleyball) and visit govandals.com    

 



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No. 12 BYU to face No. 22 Georgia Tech in the Pop-Tarts Bowl – BYU Athletics – Official Athletics Website

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PROVO, Utah — No. 12 BYU has accepted an invitation to play No. 22 Georgia Tech in the Pop-Tarts Bowl at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, on Saturday, Dec. 27. The game is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast nationally on ABC.

The Cougars (11-2) and Yellow Jackets (9-3) are being featured in the 36th edition of the annual bowl game played in Florida that first began in Miami as the Blockbuster Bowl in 1990. This year’s game will be the third year under Pop-Tarts’ title partnership and the 25th played at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium. 

This is BYU’s 42nd bowl invitation which ranks No. 24 all-time among FBS teams. Georgia Tech is playing in its 48th bowl game, ranking No. 15. 

Series History
This will be the fifth meeting between BYU and Georgia Tech in a series that started in 2002. The Cougars own a 3-1 advantage to date, with a 2-0 record in Provo and 1-1 mark in Atlanta. This will be the first bowl matchup and neutral site game between the two schools. The last meeting was 38-20 BYU win at LaVell Edwards Stadium in 2013. Georgia Tech won the first game in Atlanta by a 28-19 score. 

Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech achieved a 9-3 record, including victories over then No. 12 Clemson and eventual ACC Champion Duke, to earn a No. 22 final CFP ranking on Sunday. Like BYU, the Yellow Jackets started the year with an 8-0 record to earn a top-10 ranking in the major national polls. Tech is coming off a hard-fought 16-9 defeat against now SEC champion No. 3 Georgia in Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. 

Georgia Tech and BYU played one common opponent during the 2025 season. The Yellow Jackets opened the year with a 27-20 victory over Colorado of the Big 12 in Boulder. The Cougars also visited Boulder this year, opening Big 12 Conference play on the road against the Buffaloes with a 24-21 come-from-behind victory. 

The Yellow Jackets boast an offense that ranks No. 12 in the nation, producing 466.3 yards per game with a balanced attack. Tech is ranked No. 19 in rushing offense at 203 yards on the ground on average and No. 29 in passing offense at 263.3 yards per game.

BYU Cougars
Led by 2025 Big 12 Coach of the year Kalani Sitake, BYU achieved its fourth double-digit victory season in the past six years and was one of just 10 FBS teams to finish the 2025 regular season with 11 or more victories. The Cougars reached the 11-win mark for the second consecutive season and for the fourth time under Sitake among a total of 14 overall 11-victory campaigns in the history of the program.

The Cougars have tied for the best conference record in back-to-back seasons and this year finished as the league runner-up after falling for the second time this year to No. 4 Texas Tech on Saturday in the Big 12 Championship game. Sitake has led the Cougars to 22-4 over the past two seasons, the sixth-best record in all of the FBS with a an .846 win percentage. 

BYU’s strong complementary football features the No. 19 scoring defense at 19.0 points per game and No. 34 scoring offense with 31.9 points per game. The Cougars were also among the best red zone teams on both sides of the ball, with the defense allowing scores just 72.92 percent of the time to rank No. 9 nationally and the offense scoring at a 92.45 percent clip inside the 20 for No. 10.

Ticket Info

BYU tickets for the Pop-Tarts Bowl go on sale on Monday morning. The Cougar Club and Corporate Sponsors will receive emails with their exclusive purchasing time windows and related codes and links to purchase tickets on Monday morning before tickets go on sale to the general public beginning at 11:15 a.m. MT. Fans can get more information about purchasing bowl tickets at BYUtickets.com.



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