The Gonzaga University volleyball team has been a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division I West Coast Conference (WCC) for several years. With a rich history of success and a loyal fan base, the Bulldogs have established themselves as one of the top programs on the West Coast. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the team's history, their recent season performance, and what's in store for the future.
Team History and Achievements
Gonzaga University's volleyball program was established in 1982, and since then, the team has experienced its fair share of ups and downs. However, under the leadership of head coach Diane Nelson, the Bulldogs have enjoyed a remarkable run of success, including several conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. In 2010, Gonzaga won its first-ever WCC championship, and the team has since become a perennial contender in the conference.
Notable Achievements
- 2010 WCC Champions
- 2011 NCAA Tournament Appearance
- 2013 WCC Tournament Champions
- 2015 NCAA Tournament Appearance
- 2018 WCC Tournament Champions
Recent Season Performance
The 2022 season was a remarkable one for the Gonzaga University volleyball team. The Bulldogs finished with an impressive 20-10 overall record and a 12-6 mark in WCC play, earning them a third-place finish in the conference standings. Led by seniors Chloe Hatch and Kenzie Davis, Gonzaga made a deep run in the WCC Tournament, ultimately falling to top-seeded BYU in the championship match.
Key Player Performances
- Chloe Hatch (Senior, Outside Hitter): 384 kills, 3.34 kills per set,.234 hitting percentage
- Kenzie Davis (Senior, Setter): 1,242 assists, 10.83 assists per set,.355 hitting percentage
- Ashley Anderson (Sophomore, Middle Blocker): 242 kills, 2.15 kills per set,.311 hitting percentage
Future Outlook
As the Gonzaga University volleyball team looks to the future, there is plenty of reason for optimism. With a strong returning core and an influx of talented newcomers, the Bulldogs are poised to make another deep run in the WCC and potentially beyond. The team will need to replace the production of graduating seniors Hatch and Davis, but with a solid recruiting class and a proven coaching staff, Gonzaga is well-positioned to remain a top contender in the conference.
Key Returning Players
- Ashley Anderson (Junior, Middle Blocker)
- Kylie Smith (Junior, Outside Hitter)
- Lauren Benson (Sophomore, Libero)
Key Incoming Freshmen
- Emma Christensen (Outside Hitter, Boise, ID)
- Alexandra Peterson (Middle Blocker, Seattle, WA)
- Samantha Kim (Setter, Irvine, CA)
As the Gonzaga University volleyball team continues to build momentum, fans can expect an exciting season ahead. With a talented roster and a proven coaching staff, the Bulldogs are poised to make a deep run in the WCC and potentially beyond. Be sure to follow the team's progress throughout the season and get ready to cheer on the Zags!
What is the Gonzaga University volleyball team's conference affiliation?
+The Gonzaga University volleyball team competes in the West Coast Conference (WCC).
Who is the head coach of the Gonzaga University volleyball team?
+The head coach of the Gonzaga University volleyball team is Diane Nelson.
What is the Gonzaga University volleyball team's home court?
+The Gonzaga University volleyball team plays its home matches at the McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Washington.