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New talents shone in the spotlight on the DP World Tour in 2024. From there, he has reached new heights. After runner-up finishes in two of his first six starts on the 2024 Race to Dubai, the 28-year-old made his DP World Tour breakthrough with a play-off victory over Kiradech Aphibarnrat at the Porsche Singapore […]

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New talents shone in the spotlight on the DP World Tour in 2024.
From there, he has reached new heights. After runner-up finishes in two of his first six starts on the 2024 Race to Dubai, the 28-year-old made his DP World Tour breakthrough with a play-off victory over Kiradech Aphibarnrat at the Porsche Singapore Classic in March.A Swede was left celebrating being recognised as an award-wining rookie. A fellow Scandinavian joined him in accessing the PGA TOUR. And an unheralded Englishman went from delivering groceries to a return to the Major stage.Now, he can look ahead to continuing his career progression by playing on both the DP World Tour and PGA TOUR this year.

Jesper Svensson

Since turning professional in 2015, his rise in the professional ranks has been steady but he has emerged to wider prominence since winning his maiden DP World Tour title at the Betfred British Masters hosted by Sir Nick Faldo in September.Victory at the start of the Back 9 lifted the 30-year-old’s confidence levels and he went on to record top 10 finishes on the Rolex Series – at the BMW PGA Championship and the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship – to seal a PGA TOUR card for 2025.From then, he almost won in his rookie season at the KLM Open, losing out to Guido Migliozzi in a play-off that also featured Marcus Kinhult.With us now into a Ryder Cup year, can Nørgaard continue to catch the eye of Captain Luke Donald and muscle his way into Team Europe at Bethpage?The latest in the line of Swedish talent to burst onto the scene and the newest recipient of the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year Award.During the time between earning his card through Qualifying School and making his debut in the 2024 DP World Tour season in Qatar, he worked as a delivery driver for UK supermarket Morrisons.Here, we take a look at three players who impressed with their performances on the 2024 Race to Dubai and have reason for optimism at the start of a new year…Writing in a Player Blog ahead of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, Dean insisted he was taking nothing for granted as he looked ahead to the challenges of trying to build on his success in 2024.

Niklas Nørgaard

Niklas Norgaard-2183634068

Joe Dean

Age: 30 | 2024 Race to Dubai ranking: 11 | Official World Golf Ranking: 93With that comes more opportunities to compete on the biggest stages at Major Championships, while his performances in recent months mean he will form part of the Continental Europe side at the Team Cup in Abu Dhabi at the start of 2025.Known as one of the biggest hitters on the DP World Tour, ranking third for driving distance on the 2024 Race to Dubai, he has risen from outside the top 300 in the world to inside the top 100.Back-to-back top fives either side of the start of the Back 9 then solidified his standing as one of the leading performers on the Race to Dubai and he closed out his campaign with a top ten on his DP World Tour Championship debut.Jesper Svensson-2185233464

In his third season playing on the Challenge Tour, he won his first title at the B-NL Challenge Trophy in the Netherlands as he went on to graduate to the DP World Tour.
After fears over travelling and a lack of funds to support the costs that come with playing around the world, the Englishman changed his outlook by finishing joint second at the Magical Kenya Open.A former international amateur teammate of Ludvig Åberg, he turned professional in 2019 and won his first title in the paid ranks a year later on the Nordic Golf League.It’s not just landing silverware that can define progress in this game.Unknown aside from the most ardent observers of the game this time last year, Dean went from playing one-day events to reaching the lucrative DP World Tour Championship in a little over 12 months.But the result was good enough to secure a return to The Open Championship after seven years away at Royal Troon, where he finished tied 25th, before three top 20s in the Back 9 guaranteed his place at the season-ending double header in the United Arab Emirates.His early season form saw him earn an invite from the PGA of America to make his Major debut in the U.S. PGA Championship, going on to make the cut at Valhalla Golf Club.Another Scandinavian nation to produce an array of good golfers is Denmark, with Nørgaard taking his career to new heights in 2024.Age: 28 | 2024 Race to Dubai ranking: 10 | Official World Golf Ranking: 106
Joe Dean-2178217470

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Sue-Kam-Ling Wins Field Performer Of The Week

Story Links JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville track and field athlete Julia Sue-Kam-Ling was voted the ASUN Field Performer of the Week Wednesday for her long jump showing at the UNF East Coast Regionals. The junior came in first in the long jump with a 5.97m leap. Her jump also served as […]

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville track and field athlete Julia Sue-Kam-Ling was voted the ASUN Field Performer of the Week Wednesday for her long jump showing at the UNF East Coast Regionals.

The junior came in first in the long jump with a 5.97m leap. Her jump also served as a season best and was .02 longer than the second-place jumper.

On the track, Sue-Kam-Ling also competed in the 100m sprint prelims. 

Sue-Kam-Ling and the rest of the Dolphin track program next competes at the ASUN Outdoor Championships starting May 17, hosted at UNF.



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What Is Katie Ledecky’s Greatest World Record? (Vote Here!)

Poll: What Is Katie Ledecky’s Greatest World Record? (Vote Here!) During her spectacular career, Katie Ledecky has set 17 world records – 15 in the long-course pool. Her latest world mark was produced last weekend, when the 28-year-old covered the 800-meter freestyle in 8:04.12 at the TYR Pro Series stop in Fort Lauderdale. Ledecky’s performance […]

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Poll: What Is Katie Ledecky’s Greatest World Record? (Vote Here!)

During her spectacular career, Katie Ledecky has set 17 world records – 15 in the long-course pool. Her latest world mark was produced last weekend, when the 28-year-old covered the 800-meter freestyle in 8:04.12 at the TYR Pro Series stop in Fort Lauderdale. Ledecky’s performance arrived nearly nine years after she clocked 8:04.79 at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Is Ledecky’s effort from Fort Lauderdale the greatest world record of her career? Or, is her finest global standard another swim. Maybe her 15:20.48 in the 1500 freestyle, which is 18 seconds faster than the No. 2 performer of all-time? Perhaps her 3:56.46 outing in the 400 freestyle at the Rio Games? Do you have another of Ledecky’s world records in mind?

Cast your vote in the poll below for the greatest world record by Ledecky, a future Hall of Famer and widely considered the finest female swimmer in history.

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The 2025 Bowerman Watch List for men’s and women’s NCAA track and field

It’s time for a look at potential winners of the Bowerman, an annual award presented to the most outstanding athletes in collegiate track and field. Here’s the latest on some of the best in DI track and field. THE BOWERMAN: Complete history of the track and field honor Latest watch list Watch list update No. 5 […]

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It’s time for a look at potential winners of the Bowerman, an annual award presented to the most outstanding athletes in collegiate track and field.

Here’s the latest on some of the best in DI track and field.

THE BOWERMAN: Complete history of the track and field honor

Latest watch list

Watch list update No. 5

The fourth update to the Bowerman women’s watch list was announced on Wednesday, May 7, with the men’s watch list announced on Thursday, May 8.

The Bowerman watch list update No. 4 (April 16/17)
Gender Athlete School Events
Women Şilan Ayyildiz Oregon Mid-Distance
  Aaliyah Butler  Georgia Sprints
  Rachel Glenn Arkansas Hurdles/Jumps
  Brynn King Roberts Wesleyan Pole Vault
  Pamela Kosgei New Mexico Distance
  Doris Lemngole Alabama Distance
  Indya Mayberry TCU Sprints
  Amanda Moll Washington Pole Vault
  Michaela Rose LSU Mid-Distance
  Jayden Ulrich Louisville Throws
Men      
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       

*Watch list career debut

The following athletes received votes:

  • Women
    • Margot Appleton, Virginia (Mid-Distance/Distance)
    • Lianna Davidson, Georgia (Javelin)
    • JaMeesia Ford, South Carolina (Sprints)
    • Lexy Halladay-Lowry, BYU (Steeple/Distance)
    • Jadin O’Brien, Notre Dame (Combined Events)
    • Manuela Rotundo, Georgia (Javelin)

PREDICTING: How the Bowerman watch lists predict the award’s final winner

2025 watch list dates

Below you’ll find all of the Bowerman watch list dates for 2025. 

Update Women’s Date Men’s Date
Preseason Wednesday, Jan. 8 Thursday, Jan. 9
1 Wednesday, Feb. 5 Thursday, Feb. 6
2
(Post-Indoor Conferences)
Wednesday, March 5 Thursday, March 6
3
(Post-NCAA Indoor)
Wednesday, March 26 Thursday, March 27
4 Wednesday, April 16 Thursday, April 17
5 Wednesday, May 7 Thursday, May 8
6
(Post-Outdoor Conferences)
Wednesday, May 21 Thursday, May 22
7
(Post-NCAA prelims)
Wednesday, June 4 Thursday, June 5
Semifinalists
(Post-NCAA Outdoor)
Wednesday, June 25 Thursday, June 26
Finalists Monday, June 30 Tuesday, July 1
Winners Thursday, Dec. 18 Thursday, Dec. 18

All dates subject to change

 

Date of the winner of the Bowerman

The 2025 winners will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 18 at the 2025 USTFCCCA convention at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.

Past watch lists

Watch list update No. 4

The fourth update to the Bowerman women’s watch list was announced on Wednesday, April 16, with the men’s watch list announced on Thursday, April 17.

The Bowerman watch list update No. 4 (April 16/17)
Gender Athlete School Events
Women Aaliyah Butler  Georgia Sprints
  Rachel Glenn Arkansas Hurdles/Jumps
  Brynn King* Roberts Wesleyan Pole Vault
  Pamela Kosgei New Mexico Distance
  Doris Lemngole Alabama Distance
  Indya Mayberry TCU Sprints
  Amanda Moll Washington Pole Vault
  Manuela Rotundo* Georgia Javelin
  Jayden Ulrich* Louisville Throws
  Isabella Whittaker Arkansas Sprints
Men Mykolas Alekna California Discus
  James Corrigan BYU Mid-Distance/Steeple
  Nathaniel Ezekiel Baylor Sprints/Hurdles
  Ishmael Kipkurui* New Mexico Distance
  Liam Murphy* Villanova Mid-Distance/Distance
  Auhmad Robinson* Texas A&M Sprints
  Tarik Robinson-O’Hagan Ole Miss Throws
  Habtom Samuel New Mexico Distance
  Ethan Strand North Carolina Mid-Distance/Distance
  Ja’Kobe Tharp Auburn Hurdles

*Watch list career debut

The following athletes received votes:

  • Women
    • Şilan Ayyildiz, Oregon (Mid-Distance)
    • Lianna Davidson, Georgia (Javelin)
    • JaMeesia Ford, South Carolina (Sprints)
    • Hana Moll, Washington (Pole Vault)
    • Jadin O’Brien, Notre Dame (Combined Events)
  • Men
    • Jordan Anthony, Arkansas (Sprints)
    • Johnny Brackins, Jr., Southern California (Hurdles/Jumps)
    • Simen Guttormsen, Duke (Pole Vault)
    • Garrett Kaalund, Southern California (Sprints)
    • Trey Knight, CSUN (Throws)
    • Carli Makarawu, Kentucky (Sprints)
    • Gary Martin, Virginia (Mid-Distance/Distance)
    • Tinoda Matsatsa, Georgetown (Mid-Distance/Distance)
    • Chinecherem Nnamdi, Baylor (Javelin)
    • Daniel Reynolds, Wyoming (Throws)
    • Kendrick Smallwood, Texas (Sprints/Hurdles)
    • Keyshawn Strachan, Nebraska (Javelin)
    • Kostas Zaltos, Minnesota (Throws)

PAST BOWERMANS: 2024 men’s – Leo Neugebauer | 2024 women’s – Parker Valby

Watch list update No. 3

The third update to the Bowerman women’s watch list was announced on Wednesday, March 26, with the men’s watch list announced on Thursday, March 27.

The Bowerman watch list update No. 3 (March 26/27)
Gender Athlete School Events
Women Aaliyah Butler  Georgia Sprints
  Lianna Davidson* Georgia Javelin
  Rachel Glenn Arkansas Hurdles/Jumps
  Axelina Johansson Nebraska Throws
  Doris Lemngole Alabama Distance
  Indya Mayberry* TCU Sprints
  Amanda Moll Washington Pole Vault
  Hana Moll Washington Pole Vault
  Jadin O’Brien* Notre Dame Combined Events
  Isabella Whittaker* Arkansas Sprints
Men Mykolas Alekna California Discus
  James Corrigan* BYU Mid-Distance/Steeple
  Nathaniel Ezekiel Baylor Sprints/Hurdles
  Simen Guttormsen* Duke Pole Vault
  Carli Makarawu* Kentucky Sprints
  Gary Martin Virginia Mid-Distance/Distance
  Daniel Reynolds* Wyoming Throws
  Tarik Robinson-O’Hagan Ole Miss Throws
  Ethan Strand North Carolina Mid-Distance/Distance
  Ja’Kobe Tharp Auburn Hurdles

*Watch list career debut

The following athletes received votes:

  • Women
    • Şilan Ayyildiz, Oregon (Mid-Distance)
    • Alexis Brown, Baylor (Sprints/Jumps)
    • Dajaz Defrand, Southern California (Sprints)
    • JaMeesia Ford, South Carolina (Sprints)
    • Elena Kulichenko, Georgia (Jumps)
    • Wilma Nielsen, Oregon (Mid-Distance)
  • Men
    • Jordan Anthony, Arkansas (Sprints)
    • Favour Ashe, Oregon (Sprints)
    • Johnny Brackins, Jr., Southern California (Hurdles/Jumps)
    • Nathan Green, Washington (Mid-Distance)
    • Brian Musau, Oklahoma State (Distance)
    • Chinecherem Nnamdi, Baylor (Javelin)
    • Jonathan Seremes, Missouri (Jumps)
    • JC Stevenson, Southern California (Sprints/Jumps)

PAST BOWERMANS: 2023 men’s – Jaydon Hibbert | 2023 women’s – Julien Alfred

Watch list update No. 2

The second update to the Bowerman women’s watch list was announced on Wednesday, March 5, with the men’s watch list announced on Thursday, March 6.

The Bowerman watch list update No. 2 (March 5/6)
Gender Athlete School Events
Women Silan Ayyildiz* Oregon Mid-Distance
  Aaliyah Butler Georgia Sprints
  JaMeesia Ford South Carolina Sprints
  Rachel Glenn Arkansas Hurdles/Jumps
  Tacoria Humphrey* Illinois Jumps
  Axelina Johansson Nebraska Throws
  Doris Lemngole Alabama Distance
  Amanda Moll* Washington Pole Vault
  Hana Moll Washington Pole Vault
  Julitette Whittaker Stanford Mid-Distance
Men Mykolas Alekna California Discus
  Johnny Brackins Jr. Southern California Hurdles/Jumps
  Nathaniel Ezekiel* Baylor Sprints/Hurdles
  Gary Martin* Virginia Mid-Distance/Distance
  Tarik Robinson-O’Hagan Ole Miss Throws
  Habtom Samuel New Mexico Distance
  JC Stevenson* Southern California Sprints/Jumps
  Ethan Strand North Carolina Mid-Distance/Distance
  Ja’Kobe Tharp Auburn Hurdles
  Parker Wolfe North Carolina Distance

*Watch list career debut

The following athletes received votes:

  • Women
    • Anthaya Charlton, Florida (Jumps)
    • Mya Lesnar, Colorado State (Throws)
    • Indya Mayberry, TCU (Sprints)
    • Jadin O’Brien, Notre Dame (Combined Events)
    • Hilda Olemomoi, Florida (Distance)
    • Michaela Rose, LSU (Mid-Distance)
    • Isabella Whittaker, Arkansas (Sprints)
  • Men
    • Favour Ashe, Oregon (Sprints)
    • Makanakaishe Charamba, Auburn (Sprints)
    • Eli Kosiba, Grand Valley State (Jumps)
    • Tinoda Matsatsa, Georgetown (Mid-Distance/Distance)
    • Aidan McCarthy, Cal Poly (Mid-Distance)
    • Chinecherem Nnamdi, Baylor (Javelin)
    • Daniel Reynolds, Wyoming (Throws)
    • Jonathan Seremes, Missouri (Jumps)
    • Aleksandr Solovev, Texas A&M (Pole Vault)
    • Keyshawn Strachan, Nebraska (Javelin)
    • Sam Whitmarsh, Texas A&M (Mid-Distance)

PAST BOWERMANS: 2022 men’s – Trey Cunningham | 2022 women’s – Abby Steiner

Watch list update No. 1

The first update to the Bowerman women’s watch list was announced on Wednesday, Feb. 5, with the men’s watch list announced on Thursday, Feb. 6. 

The Bowerman watch list update No. 1 (Feb. 5/6)
Gender Athlete School Events
Women Aaliyah Butler* Georgia Sprints
  Anthaya Charlton* Florida Jumps
  JaMeesia Ford South Carolina Sprints
  Rachel Glenn Arkansas Hurdles/Jumps
  Doris Lemngole Alabama Distance
  Hilda Olemomoi Florida Distance
  Laura Pellicoro* Portland Mid-Distance
  Jaida Ross Oregon Throws
  Chloe Timberg Rutgers Pole Vault
  Julitette Whittaker Stanford Mid-Distance
Men Mykolas Alekna California Discus
  Johnny Brackins Jr. Southern California Hurdles/Jumps
  Trey Knight* CSUN Throws
  Wanya McCoy* Florida Sprints
  Tarik Robinson-O’Hagan Ole Miss Throws
  Habtom Samuel New Mexico Distance
  Ethan Strand North Carolina Mid-Distance/Distance
  Ja’Kobe Tharp Auburn Hurdles
  Sam Whitmarsh Texas A&M Mid-Distance
  Parker Wolfe North Carolina Distance

*Watch list career debut

The following athletes received votes:

  • Women
    • Axelina Johansson, Nebraska (Throws)
    • Pamela Kosgei, New Mexico (Distance)
    • Elena Kulichenko, Georgia (Jumps)
    • Mya Lesnar, Colorado State (Throws)
    • Indya Mayberry, TCU (Sprints)
    • Amanda Moll, Washington (Pole Vault)
    • Hana Moll, Washington (Pole Vault)
    • Wilma Nielsen, Oregon (Mid-Distance)
    • Jadin O’Brien, Notre Dame (Combined Events)
    • Michaela Rose, LSU (Mid-Distance)
    • Savannah Sutherland, Michigan (Sprints/Hurdles)
  • Men
    • Favour Ashe, Oregon (Sprints)
    • Graham Blanks, Harvard (Distance)
    • Nathaniel Ezekiel, Baylor (Sprints/Hurdles)
    • Eli Kosiba, Grand Valley State (Jumps)
    • Abdullahi Hassan, Mississippi State (Mid-Distance)
    • Chinecherem Nnamdi, Baylor (Javelin)
    • Samuel Ogazi, Alabama (Sprints)
    • Tarsis Orogot, Alabama (Sprints)
    • Jonathan Seremes, Missouri (Jumps)
    • Aleksandr Solovev, Texas A&M (Pole Vault)
    • JC Stevenson, Southern California (Sprints/Jumps)
    • Keyshawn Strachan, Nebraska (Javelin)

Preseason watch list

The women’s preseason watch list was announced on Wednesday, Jan. 8, with the men’s preseason watch list announced on Thursday, Jan. 9. 

The Bowerman preseason watch list (Jan. 8/9)
Gender Athlete School Events
Women Kaylyn Brown* Arkansas Sprints
  JaMeesia Ford South Carolina Sprints
  Rachel Glenn Arkansas Hurdles/Jumps
  Axelina Johansson Nebraska Throws
  Doris Lemngole*+ Alabama Distance
  Brianna Lyston LSU Sprints
  Hilda Olemomoi* Florida Distance
  Michaela Rose LSU Mid-Distance
  Jaida Ross# Oregon Throws
  Juliette Whittaker+ Stanford Mid-Distance
Men Mykolas Alekna California Discus
  Johnny Brackins Jr. Southern California Hurdles/Jumps
  Chinecherem Nnamdi* Baylor Javelin
  Tarik Robinson-O’Hagan*+ Ole Miss Throws
  Tarsis Orogot Alabama Sprints
  Habtom Samuel+ New Mexico Distance
  Ethan Strand* North Carolina Mid-Distance/Distance
  Ja’Kobe Tharp Auburn Hurdles
  Sam Whitmarsh Texas A&M Sprints/Mid-Distance
  Parker Wolfe+ North Carolina Distance

*Watch list career debut
#Returning finalist
+Returning semifinalist

The following athletes received votes:

  • Women | Aaliyah Butler, Georgia (Sprints)
    • Rosey Effiong, Arkansas (Sprints)
    • Brynn King, Roberts Wesleyan (Pole Vault)
    • Pamela Kosgei, New Mexico (Distance)
    • Elena Kulichenko, Georgia (Jumps)
    • Jadin O’Brien, Notre Dame (Combined Events)
    • Savannah Sutherland, Michigan (Sprints/Hurdles)
    • Chloe Timberg, Rutgers (Pole Vault)
  • Men
    • Nathan Green, Washington (Mid-Distance)
    • Kenneth Ikeji, Harvard (Throws)
    • Eli Kosiba, Grand Valley State (Jumps)
    • Rivaldo Marshall, Arkansas (Mid-Distance)
    • Tinoda Matsatsa, Georgetown (Mid-Distance/Distance)
    • Nathan Mountain, Virginia (Mid-Distance)
    • Samuel Ogazi, Alabama (Sprints)
    • Godson Oghenebrume, LSU (Sprints)
    • Colin Sahlman, Northern Arizona (Mid-Distance)



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Loyola Chicago Readies for NCAA Quarterfinals

Story Links LEADING OFF  For the first time since 2015, No. 7 Loyola Chicago (25-3, 13-3 MIVA) is in the NCAA Tournament, and at the No. 4 seed the Ramblers take on the fifth-seeded No. 6 Pepperdine Wave in the quarterfinals on Thursday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. CT.  QUICK HITS […]

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LEADING OFF 
For the first time since 2015, No. 7 Loyola Chicago (25-3, 13-3 MIVA) is in the NCAA Tournament, and at the No. 4 seed the Ramblers take on the fifth-seeded No. 6 Pepperdine Wave in the quarterfinals on Thursday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. CT. 

QUICK HITS

  • Four Ramblers earned American Volleyball Coaches Association All-American status, announced by the league’s office on Monday, May 5. For the second consectuive year, Parker Van Buren earned First Team AVCA All-American, Nicodemus Meyer and Daniel Fabikovic were named to the AVCA All-American Second Team, marking the senior’s first second team nod and the second straight for the sophomore. Ryan McElligott was awarded an AVCA All-American Honorable Mention for the first time in his career. 
  • Loyola Chicago earned its first NCAA Tournament berth in 10 years after downing Ohio State, 3-0, to clinch the Ramblers’ fourth overall Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association Tournament Championship on Saturday, April 26 inside Gentile Arena. Loyola had been chasing the conference tournament title and an NCAA tournament bid since 2015. 
  • The Ramblers swept the MIVA Tournament, winning nine straight sets to secure the championship, which marked the first time since 2022 that a MIVA team (Balll State) won the championship in three three-set matches. MIVA Player of the Year and All-Conference First Teamer Van Buren was named the tournament’s MVP while Fabikovic and McElligott, both All-MIVA First Team honorees as well, were named to the All-MIVA Tournament team. 
  • Van Buren became just the second player in program history to be named back-to-back MIVA POTY (Thomas Jaeschke, ’14, ’15), and the third to claim four All-MIVA First Team roster spots. With Meyer, McElligott and Fabikovic also All-MIVA First Teamers, it marks the first time four Ramblers made all-conference first team since 2018 and fourth overall in program history. 
  • Nationally, McElligott leads the country in assists/set (10.90), Meyer ranks second in blocks/set (1.23) and Van Buren is second in kills/set (4.42), fourth in points/set (5.25) and ninth in hitting percentage (.410). 
  • As a unit, the Ramblers lead the country in kills/set (13.35) and in assists/set (12.50), and rank second in hitting percentage (.368), third in blocks/set (2.57) and fifth in aces/set (1.82). 
  • Loyola finished as the league leader in 10 different categories: points/set (17.74), hitting percentage, assists, kills, blocks (2.57/set), service aces, opponent hitting percentage (.220), opponent assists (10.26/set), opponent kills (10.74/set) and opponent service aces (0.93). 
  • Head coach Shane Davis remains the winningest coach in program history with a 289-91 ledger and a .761 winning percentage. 

SCOUTING REPORT
Pepperdine (20-9, 7-5 MPSF) came in as the fourth seed in the MPSF Tournament, and The Wave swept Grand Canyon (3-0) in the quarterfinals before upsetting reigning NCAA champion UCLA (3-2) in the semis then taking down USC (3-1) to clinch the program’s seventh overall conference tournament title and an automatic NCAA Tournament bid. As a unit, Pepperdine ranks eighth in hitting percentage (.328), 12th in assists/set (11.68) and 16th in kills/set (12.41). 

Junior outside hitter Ryan Barnett was named the tournament MVP, notching 23 kills on .333 hitting, 11 digs and 22 perfect service receptions in the championship match. Junior libero Jacob Reilly and rookie outside hitter Cole Hartke were awarded All-Tournament Team nods. Earlier this awards season, Hartke was named the MPSF Freshman of the Year and was the only first-year named to the All-MPSF First Team. Barnett, Reilly and Gabe Dyer were awarded first-team, second-team and honorable mention respectively. 

SERIES HISTORY
Earlier this spring, Loyola defeated Pepperdine in a five-set thriller (25-15, 25-23, 19-25, 29-31, 15-12) on the road. Multiple Ramblers marked season and career highs against The Wave, including McElligott’s 59 assists and four service aces. Loyola holds a 3-1 advantage in the all-time series. It will be the first ever meeting between the two programs in the NCAA Tournament. 

FOLLOW THE ACTION

Stream the quarterfinals match on ESPN and follow men’s volleyball on Instagram and X @RamblersMVB for in-game updates. 



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Ashton Henderson Named Senior Deputy Athletic Director & Chief Operating Officer at George Mason University

Fairfax, Va. — George Mason University Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics has announced the appointment of Ashton Henderson as its new Senior Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Operating Officer. A highly respected national leader in college athletics and professional sports, Henderson brings nearly 15 years of experience spanning collegiate athletics and professional sports with stops at Florida State University, […]

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Fairfax, Va. — George Mason University Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics has announced the appointment of Ashton Henderson as its new Senior Deputy Athletic Director and Chief Operating Officer. A highly respected national leader in college athletics and professional sports, Henderson brings nearly 15 years of experience spanning collegiate athletics and professional sports with stops at Florida State University, Clemson University, and the Detroit Pistons. 

“Ashton Henderson is a dynamic and emerging leader in intercollegiate athletics,” said Lewis. “He brings a unique blend of authenticity, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to the holistic development of student-athletes. His ability to foster collaboration across departments, cultivate meaningful relationships throughout the university, and lead in the ever-evolving NIL landscape will be an incredible asset to our program. I have full confidence that Ashton’s leadership will elevate the student-athlete experience and further strengthen the championship culture within Mason Athletics. We’re proud to welcome Ashton and his wife, Chloe, to the George Mason family!”

As a senior member of the Vice President/Director of Athletics’ leadership team, Henderson will oversee the department’s daily operations to ensure effective communication, collaboration, and consistent operational execution in support of over 500 student-athletes, 100 full-time employees, and over 200 part-time staff members. 

Henderson will champion new strategic initiatives to enhance the student-athlete experience, drive revenue, and galvanize the community. He will collaborate with campus and community partners to advance the athletics program and serve as the program administrator for men’s basketball and other varsity athletics programs, including sport supervision responsibilities.

“I am fired up and incredibly honored to join the Mason Nation family,” said Henderson. “This is a special institution rooted in excellence, and I am fully committed to serving our student-athletes, coaches, and community with energy, passion, and purpose. I look forward to building meaningful relationships and helping elevate the Patriots to even greater heights.”

A former four-year letter winner in football at Michigan State University (2006–09), Henderson most recently served as Deputy Athletic Director for Championship Resources & Culture at Michigan State University, where he provided executive leadership for nine areasAthletic Training, Spartans Fuel (Nutrition), Athletic Performance, Student-Athlete Wellness, Sports Science & Data Analytics, EverGreen NIL Education & Strategy, Varsity S Club, Student-Athlete Development, & Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging (DEIB) efforts and served as the sport administration for women’s basketball during the 2022-2023 competition season.  He also oversaw the university’s award-winning “EverGreen” NIL program, which was named the nation’s Best Institutional Program at the 2023 NIL Summit.

Before returning to Michigan State University in 2022, Henderson served as the first-ever Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion for the Detroit Pistons, transforming the franchise’s DEI framework and earning national recognition as a Sports Inclusion Conference DEI Champion in 2021.

Henderson’s collegiate leadership journey includes impactful roles at Florida State University and Clemson, where he championed academic success, leadership development, and holistic student-athlete programming. He is a Past President of the National Association for Academic & Student-Athlete Development Professionals N4A (2021-2022), the largest affiliate under the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) umbrella with over 2,000 members. Hendersonalso has won several Association (N4A) awards over the years: Professional Excellence (2020); Model Practice Award – Florida State University (LYFE Program, 2019); and the Professional Promise Award (2015). 

In addition, he received the Cheryl M. Gilliam Young Alumni Award in 2019, which was presented by the MSU Varsity “S” Club. He is also a proud graduate of the NCAA Dr. Charles Whitcomb Leadership Institute, NCAA Pathway Program, and The FBS Athletics Director (Lead 1) Diversity Fellowship Program, where these programs are designed to prepare athletic administrators to become Athletic Directors and or Conference Commissioners. He is also privileged to serve on the Board of Directors of The McLendon Foundation.

As a student-athlete on the football team, Henderson saw action as both a defensive back and on special teams. In his freshman season (2006), he returned a blocked punt 33 yards for a touchdown vs. Northwestern to help fuel the greatest comeback in NCAA Division I-A history as the Spartans rallied from a 35-point deficit for a 41-38 victory.

A two-time graduate of Michigan State, Henderson holds a B.A. in Advertising, an M.A. in Public Relations, and an M.B.A. from Florida State. In 2024, he was recognized with MSU’s Outstanding Alumni Award from the College of Communication Arts & Sciences, the college’s highest honor for alumni. 

Henderson will join George Mason on May 19.

WHAT ARE THEY SAYING ABOUT ASHTON

“In my 40 years of collegiate coaching I’ve never worked with anyone who cares more for the student-athlete than Ashton. He has a tremendous ability to build consensus and unity. He’ll do amazing things at George Mason.”

Bob Braman

Florida State Track and Cross Country

2006 & 2008 NCAA Champions

“Ashton Henderson has consistently demonstrated a work style that is both diligent and innovative, bringing fresh ideas and approaches to every project he tackles. His inclusive nature fosters a collaborative environment where every team member feels valued and heard. Ashton’s ability to connect with people personally and his unwavering commitment to excellence truly sets him apart. His leadership is seen, felt and heard even after he has left our organization. A strong leader with lasting impact.”

Nicolet Lewis

Detroit Pistons, Executive Vice President/Chief People Officer

“The George Mason Athletics family is welcoming an exceptional leader in Ashton Henderson. He builds genuine, lasting relationships and is highly regarded throughout college athletics. His contagious enthusiasm will elevate Patriots athletics, positively impacting the entire Green & Gold community.” 

Vanessa Fuchs

WeCOACH CEO 

“Ashton is an incredible leader with a bright future ahead of him. While Ashton was at Clemson, I knew that he would continue to soar in his Athletics pursuit, and I am proud of all that he has accomplished over the past decade. George Mason University is fortunate to have Ashton join their team, and I wish him the best in his next chapter and continued leadership journey.” 

Dr. James Clements

Clemson University President

 

“I got to know Ashton as a standout football student-athlete at Michigan State. Those skills he learned have manifested into making a tremendous impact on student athletes’ lives at every place he’s been. George Mason is getting a service-oriented leader who puts students first.” 

Martin Jarmound

The Alice and Nahum Lainer Family Director of Athletics, University of California, Los Angeles





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George Jenkins boys volleyball stays undefeated, advances to regional semis

The George Jenkins boys volleyball team and head coach Jena Ousley knew very little about Dr. Phillips ahead of the Class 3A regional quarterfinals Tuesday at George Jenkins High School. Even still, the Eagles went into the match willing and able to make quick adjustments. In essence, the goal for George Jenkins was finding their […]

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The George Jenkins boys volleyball team and head coach Jena Ousley knew very little about Dr. Phillips ahead of the Class 3A regional quarterfinals Tuesday at George Jenkins High School.

Even still, the Eagles went into the match willing and able to make quick adjustments. In essence, the goal for George Jenkins was finding their weakness and exploiting it. In the end, George Jenkins beat Dr. Phillips 3-1, advancing the local squad to the regional semifinals for the first time in school history.

“I am proud of my team for once again holding it together during adversity,” Ousley said.

The Eagles started out behind in the first set 24-21 due to too many errors. Still, the Eagles came back and won.

George Jenkins won the second set, playing that George Jenkins brand of volleyball.

A set later in the third, it appeared the undefeated squad relaxed and exhibited too confidence, eventually losing that set.

But this shortcoming galvanized the team before controlling the momentum and steamrolling the whole time in the fourth set.

“(It’s all about) being a role model for my team, having to show up and show out. If no one was having a good day or upset, I have to step up and poor my heart out on the court, either if it was scoring points, hyping my teammates up after a good play, or giving tips on how to win the game,” George Jenkins junior outside hitter Jacob Aca said.

George Jenkins (23-0), the No. 39 team in all of Florida and the No. 4 seed in regionals, will take on the No. 13 team in Florida and the top seed in the tournament in Freedom High School (23-5) on Friday.

“We need to work on getting all of our hitters involved and running effective offense that keeps Freedom out of the system,” Ousley said. “We will also be more aggressive with putting the ball over the net. We will need to play a close to perfect match to beat Freedom. They are a good team that will definitely challenge us and I am excited to see how my boys will do against this high level of competition. We also love an adversarial gym to play in. So we are excited for that.”



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