Ferris State University Volleyball Team Overview

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The Ferris State University volleyball team, also known as the Ferris State Bulldogs, has a rich history of competitive excellence in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). Located in Big Rapids, Michigan, the university's volleyball program has produced numerous talented players and achieved significant success over the years.

As a member of the NCAA Division II, the Ferris State Bulldogs have consistently demonstrated their strength and agility on the court, showcasing their skills in regional and national tournaments. With a strong coaching staff and dedicated athletes, the team continues to strive for excellence, pushing themselves to new heights with each passing season.

History of the Program

The Ferris State University volleyball program was established in 1975, with the team competing in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) for several years before transitioning to the NCAA Division II in 1987. Since joining the NCAA, the Bulldogs have become a dominant force in the GLIAC, winning multiple conference championships and earning numerous national tournament appearances.

Throughout their history, the Ferris State Bulldogs have produced several notable players who have gone on to achieve success at the professional and international levels. Some of the team's most accomplished alumni include players who have competed in the Olympic Games, World Championships, and professional leagues in the United States and abroad.

Coaching Staff

The Ferris State University volleyball coaching staff is led by head coach Tia Brandel-Wilhelm, who has been at the helm of the program since 2003. Under Brandel-Wilhelm's guidance, the Bulldogs have won multiple conference championships and have consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation.

The coaching staff also includes assistant coaches who have a wealth of experience in the sport, having competed and coached at various levels, including collegiate and professional. The staff's expertise and dedication to the team have been instrumental in the Bulldogs' success over the years.

Seasonal Performance

The Ferris State Bulldogs have consistently demonstrated their strength and agility on the court, showcasing their skills in regional and national tournaments. Here are some of the team's recent seasonal performances:

• 2020: 21-5 overall record, 15-3 in the GLIAC, and a national tournament appearance
• 2019: 24-6 overall record, 16-2 in the GLIAC, and a national tournament appearance
• 2018: 20-10 overall record, 12-6 in the GLIAC, and a regional tournament appearance

These results demonstrate the team's ability to compete at a high level and their commitment to excellence in the sport.

Notable Players

The Ferris State University volleyball program has produced several notable players who have gone on to achieve success at the professional and international levels. Some of the team's most accomplished alumni include:

• Ashley Huntey, a two-time All-American who competed in the 2012 Olympic Games
• Arielle Goodson, a three-time All-GLIAC selection who played professionally in the United States and Europe
• Brandie Merren, a two-time All-American who competed in the 2016 Olympic Games

These players, among others, have demonstrated the team's ability to produce talented athletes who can compete at the highest levels.

Community Involvement

The Ferris State University volleyball team is actively involved in the local community, participating in various outreach programs and charity events. Some of the team's community involvement initiatives include:

• Hosting youth volleyball clinics and camps
• Participating in local food drives and charity events
• Visiting schools and hospitals to promote the sport and support local youth

These efforts demonstrate the team's commitment to giving back to the community and promoting the sport of volleyball.

Facilities

The Ferris State University volleyball team competes in the Ewigleben Sports Complex, a state-of-the-art facility that features a main arena with seating for over 2,000 spectators. The complex also includes training facilities, locker rooms, and a sports medicine center.

The Ewigleben Sports Complex provides the team with an excellent environment to compete and train, with top-notch facilities and equipment.

Conclusion

The Ferris State University volleyball team has a rich history of competitive excellence, producing talented players and achieving significant success over the years. With a strong coaching staff, dedicated athletes, and excellent facilities, the team continues to strive for excellence, pushing themselves to new heights with each passing season.

We encourage you to share your thoughts on the Ferris State University volleyball team in the comments section below. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the team, feel free to ask.