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

By: Don Rebel


Monday, June 9, 2025 | 10:28 PM

In the 2012 PIAA boys volleyball championships, Chambersburg defeated Pennridge in the Class 3A finals and Bethlehem Catholic knocked off York Suburban in the 2A title match.

That was the last year the PIAA boys volleyball finals were contested without a WPIAL representative.

Heading into the 2025 PIAA boys volleyball semifinals, two District 7 teams are still alive for state gold with North Allegheny in 3A and Shaler in 2A.

Here are the sites and times for the PIAA boys volleyball semifinals Tuesday along with all the first-round and quarterfinal results from the state playoffs.

Class 3A

Semifinals

Tuesday’s schedule

North Allegheny (17-1) vs. Central York (17-2) at Bald Eagle at 5 p.m.

Governor Mifflin (19-1) vs. Cumberland Valley (20-0) at Penn Manor at 7 p.m.

Quarterfinals

North Allegheny 3, Penn-Trafford 1

Central York 3, Spring-Ford 0

Governor Mifflin 3, Northeastern York 2

Cumberland Valley 3, Abington Heights 0

First round

North Allegheny 3, Palmyra 0

Penn-Trafford 3, State College 0

Central York 3, Seneca Valley 0

Spring-Ford 3, Northeast 1

Northeastern York 3, Pennsbury 2

Governor Mifflin 3, Emmaus 2

Abington Heights 3, Bethlehem Freedom 2

Cumberland Valley 3, Unionville 0

Class 2A

Semifinals

Tuesday’s schedule

Shaler (18-1) vs. Meadville (17-0) at Sharon at 6 p.m.

Manheim Central (21-0) vs. York Suburban (18-3) at Penn Manor at 5 p.m.

Quarterfinals

Shaler 3, Brandywine Heights 0

Meadville 3, Ambridge 0

Manheim Central 3, Dock Mennonite 0

York Suburban 3, Holy Redeemer 0

First round

Shaler 3, Saegertown 0

Brandywine Heights 3, West Shamokin 1

Ambridge 3, Obama Academy 0

Meadville 3, South Fayette 0

Manheim Central 3, Palumbo 0

Dock Mennonite 3, Crestwood 2

York Suburban 3, Lansdale Catholic 1

Holy Redeemer 3, Carver E&S 0

Colorado Springs, Colo. (June 9, 2025) — USA Volleyball has selected 12 athletes to compete on the 2025 U.S. Girls U19 National Team at the NORCECA U19 Pan American Cup, June 24–28 in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

The 12 were chosen from the 19 members of the Girls U19 National Team who trained June 1-7 at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Those selected will participate in a second training block from June 20-22 in Chicago, Illinois, before heading to Canada.

The U.S. Girls U19 National Team won gold at the Pan Am Cup in both 2022 and 2023, and won gold last year at the NORCECA Continental Championship. This year, the team will be in a pool with Mexico, Puerto Rico and Venezuela.

2025 U.S. Girls U19 National Team for the NORCECA Pan American Cup
(Name, Position, Height, Birth Year, Hometown, High School, Region)

1 Taimane Ainu’u (S, 5-11, 2009, Kapolei, Hawaii, Iolani HS, Aloha)
2 Nejari Crooks (OPP, 6-1, 2009, High Point, N.C., Wesleyan Christian Academy, Carolina)
3 Cala Haffner (L, 5-8, 2009, Fort Wayne, Ind., Carroll HS, Hoosier)
4 Taylor Harrington (MB, 6-3, 2009, Arlington, Va., Wakefield HS, Chesapeake)
5 Olivia Henry (OH, 6-5, 2009, Bayside, N.Y., IMG Academy, Florida)
6 Megan Hodges (MB/OPP, 6-5, 2009, Ladera Ranch, Calif., San Juan Hills HS, Southern California)
7 Marissa Jones (S, 6-2, 2009, Atlanta, Ga., Woodward Academy, Southern)
8 Kari Knotts (OH, 6-3, 2010, Marietta, Ga., Hightower Trail MS, Southern)
11 Westley Matavao (OH, 6-0, 2009, Ontario, Calif., Mater Dei HS, Southern California)
13 Shayla Rautenberg (MB, 6-3, 2009, Pleasant Dale, Neb., Milford HS, Great Plains)
14 Ireland Real (OH, 6-4, 2009, San Clemente, Calif., Santa Margarita Catholic HS, Southern California)
18 Kyla Williams (MB, 6-4, 2009, Cleveland, Ohio, Gilmour Academy, Ohio Valley)

Alternates
9 Pulelehua Laikona (L, 5-8, 2009, Gilbert, Ariz., Mesa HS, Arizona)
10 Leilani Lamar (OH, 6-2, 2009, Tampa, Fla., Tampa Preparatory School, Florida)
12 McKenna McIntosh (OH, 6-1, 2009, Stockton, Calif., St. Mary’s HS, Northern California)
15 Josalyn Samuels (S, 6-1, 2009, Harrisburg, S.D., Harrisburg HS, North Country)
16 Marlee Steiner (MB, 6-4, 2009, St. Louis, Mo., Lindbergh HS, Gateway)
17 Caroline Ward (OPP, 6-0, 2009, Lizton, Ind., Tri-West Hendricks HS, Hoosier)
19 Shaye Witherspoon (OH, 6-3, 2009, Wildwood, Mo., Lafayette HS, Gateway)

Coaches
Head Coach: Jamie Morrison (Texas A&M)
Assistant Coach: Michelle Chatman Smith (LOVB)
Assistant Coach: Maggie Eppright (LOVB)
Performance Analyst: Michael Bouril (Mississippi State)
Athletic Trainer: Rebecca Himes (PVF)
Team Lead: Alex Purvey (NTDP)

2025 Girls U19 Pan American Cup  Schedule
All times Pacific
Subject to change

June 24
10 a.m.: Puerto Rico vs. Mexico
12:00 pm: USA vs. Venezuela
2 p.m.: Chile vs. Dominican Republic
4 p.m.: Canada vs. Costa Rica

June 25
10 a.m.: Puerto Rico vs. Venezuela
12 p.m.: USA vs. Mexico
2 p.m.: Chile vs. Costa Rica
4 p.m.: Canada vs. Dominican Republic

June 26
10 a.m.: Mexico vs. Venezuela
12 p.m..: USA vs. Puerto Rico
2 p.m.: Costa Rica vs. Dominican Republic
4 p.m.: Canada vs. Chile

June 27
10 a.m.: 3A vs. 4B
12 p.m.: 3B vs. 4A
2 p.m.: 1A vs. 2B
4 p.m.: 1B vs. 2A

June 28
8 a.m.: Classification 7/8
10 a.m.: Classification 5/6
12 p.m.: Bronze Medal Match
4 p.m.: Gold Medal Match

ERIE, Pa. – Acrobatics & tumbling student-athlete Ally Ross (Gladstone, N.J./Gill St. Bernard’s School) and football player Braeden Soboleski (Erie, Pa./McDowell) have been selected as the Gannon University Student-Athletes of the Week for the week of June 8. The Gannon Student-Athlete of the Week Award is sponsored by Chick-fil-A of Erie. The award will continue throughout the summer months and will be presented to deserving student-athletes.

 

A rising junior from Gladstone, N.J., Ross is spending a portion of her summer working at the International Gymnastics Camp in East Stroudsburg, Pa. From May 24 to July 16 she is not only serving as a gymnastics instructor but also serving as a counselor in a cabin. The camp attracts gymnasts from all over the world.

 

Soboleski wrapped up his career as a wide receiver on the football team this past fall. A native of Erie he recently was the recipient of a Founder’s Day Award as part of Gannon University’s Commencement. Soboleski was the recipient of the Excellence in Political Science Award.

 

On the gridiron Soboleski finished second on the team in receptions with 26 for 387 yards and a touchdown.

 

2024-25 Gannon University Chick-fil-A Athlete of the Week Recipients

Week 1 (9/10/2024)

Jessie Watkins (Women’s Soccer)

Luke Malena (Men’s Cross Country)

Week 2 (9/17/2024)

Alexis Abbett (Women’s Cross Country)

Alexandros Kotskar (Men’s Water Polo)

Week 3 (9/24/2024)

Bengisu Arslan (Women’s Volleyball)

Petar Markovic (Men’s Water Polo)

Week 4 (10/1/2024)

Grace Emanuel (Women’s Soccer)

Shota Toyama (Men’s Soccer)

Week 5 (10/8/2024)

Emma Hall (Women’s Volleyball)

Charles Calhoun (Euclid, Ohio/St. Edward) (Football)

Week 6 (10/15/2024)

Alexandria LeCureux (Women’s Golf)

Rasmus Seppanen (Men’s Golf)

Week 7 (10/22/2024)

Hailey Koch (Women’s Volleyball)

Mattia Parrini (Men’s Golf)

Week 8 (10/29/2024)

Ditte Petersen (Women’s Golf)

Jayden Whitaker (Brownsburg, Ind./Brownsburg) (Football)

Week 9 (11/5/2024)

Carissa Dunham (Women’s Basketball)

Dorian Crosby Men’s Wrestling)

Week 10 (11/12/2024)

Bella Philips (Women’s Wrestling)

Tasman Goodrick (Men’s Basketball)

Week 11 (11/19/2024)

Trinitee Harris (Women’s Basketball)

Donell “Tank” Mason (Football)

Week 12 (11/26/2024)

Paige Taylor (Women’s Soccer)

Eli Reese (Men’s Wrestling)

Week 13 (1/6/2025)

Tori Mayes (Women’s Basketball)

Jerry Echevarria (Men’s Wrestling)

 

Week 14 (1/13/2025)

Nila Burgess (Women’s Wrestling)

Ernest Shelton (Men’s Basketball)

 

Week 15 (1/20/2025)

Kat Pendergrass (Women’s Wrestling)

Logan Sallot (Men’s Wrestling)

 

Week 16 (1/27/2025)

Maddy Wheatley (Women’s Basketball)

Kuba Loboda (Men’s Swimming)

 

Week 17 (2/2/2025)

Kate Ratliff (Women’s Basketball)

Ethan Richner (Men’s Wrestling)

 

Week 18 (2/9/2025)

Andrea Maibach (Women’s Basketball)

Pace Prosser (Men’s Basketball)

 

Week 19 (2/16/2025)

Peyton Oliver (Vallejo, Calif./Jesse M. Bethel) (Acrobatics & Tumbling)

Kenny Kiser (Men’s Wrestling)

 

Week 20 (2/23/2025)

Lili Ujfalvi (Women’s Wrestling)

Will Retsch (Men’s Swimming)

 

Week 21 (3/3/2025)

Brigid Carmody (Women’s Water Polo)

Patrick Jackson (Men’s Wrestling)

 

Week 22 (3/10/2025)

Avrey Kirisits (Women’s Lacrosse)

Wes Parker (Baseball)

 

Week 23 (3/17/2025)

Ella Todd (Women’s Lacrosse)

Giovanni Delorenzi (Men’s Golf)

 

Week 24 (3/24/2025)

Emma Smerick (Softball)

Justin DeBuck (Men’s Basketball)

 

Week 25 (3/31/2025)

Natalia Mallozzi (Softball)

Jacob Skolnik (Competitive Cheer & Dance)

Week 26 (4/7/2025)

Katie Armstrong (Softball)

Ian Soto (Baseball)

 

Week 27 (4/14/2025)

Cloe Mateo (Women’s Golf)

Jake Boynar (Baseball)

Week 28 (4/21/2025)

Abbey Girman (Softball)

Alex Bemis (Baseball)

Week 29 (4/28/2025)

Caroline Stevens (Women’s Lacrosse)

Chris Mullins (Baseball)

 

Week 30 (5/5/2025)

Sadie Carroll (Softball)

Dom Costello (Baseball)

 

Week 31 (6/2/2025)

Carissa Dunham (Women’s Basketball)

Caleb Butterfield (Men’s Wrestling)

 

Week 32 (6/9/2025)

Ally Ross (Gladstone, N.J./Gill St. Bernard’s School) (Acrobatics & Tumbling)

Braeden Soboleski (Erie, Pa./McDowell) (Football)

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire volleyball team has announced its 2025 regular season schedule that includes 26 matches across five states, 13 opponents who competed in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, and the inception of a second home tournament, the Blugold Alumni Weekend Invitational.

 

The Blugolds begin their season on Labor Day weekend as they travel to Colorado Springs for the Pikes Peak Challenge, where they’ll face off against four diverse opponents in a two-day stretch — including East Texas Baptist, Edgewood College, Milwaukee School of Engineering and host Colorado College.

 

A week later, the team heads to Chicago for the Rosalie Resch Invitational, matching up with non-conference opponents Lawrence University, Illinois Tech and perennial powerhouse University of Chicago. Then it’s a midweek trip to Minnesota to challenge Bethel University.

 

The following weekend will showcase the 12th annual Sandy Schumacher Memorial Tournament. Hosted at home from September 12-13, the tournament will feature three matches, including familiar matchups with St. Catherine and Lakeland, and a Saturday night clash against Carleton College.

 

After a Wednesday road match with the College of Saint Benedict, the WIAC season premiers with a home showdown against UW–Whitewater on September 19. This will also serve as Chippewa Valley Night, a chance to pack the stands and rally the community. The WIAC homestand continues the following Wednesday with UW-La Crosse in town.

 

As October begins, the Blugolds are battle-tested and shifting into midseason form. A tough conference road swing takes them to UW-Stout and later to UW-River Falls, with a return to tournament play at the Pointers Invitational on October 4, where they’ll face Carthage and Washington University in St. Louis — a pair of national-caliber programs.