Wisconsin Volleyball Secures No. 2 Rank in Preseason AVCA Poll (United Latest News)
Wisconsin volleyball ranked No. 2
(United Latest News)- Embarking on a fresh season, the Wisconsin volleyball team finds itself in a familiar position, perched near the summit of the rankings. The Badgers have clinched the second spot in the AVCA preseason poll, unveiled on Tuesday, and have garnered seven first-place votes. Their only superior contenders are the reigning National Champions, the Texas Longhorns.
The preseason poll showcases a strong presence of teams from the Big Ten conference. Alongside Wisconsin, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Penn State have also staked claims in the Top 10. Further down the line, Ohio State and Purdue have secured positions within the Top 20. Notably, upcoming conference participants Oregon and USC have also made the cut.
Ready to get to work!! pic.twitter.com/Nj8cxwfiHa
— Wisconsin Volleyball (@BadgerVB) August 15, 2023
Wisconsin’s recent National Championship victory, a mere two years ago, remains a testament to their prowess.
The Badgers’ campaign will be buoyed by the presence of several returning luminaries, including Devyn Robinson, Anna Smrek, and the back-in-action Sarah Franklin. A fresh wave of talent has been infused through the likes of Carter Booth and Temi Thomas-Ailara, both of whom joined the team via the transfer portal.
Adding intrigue to the roster is Saige Damrow, an incoming freshman hailing from Howards Grove. She held the distinction of being the nation’s second-ranked libero during her high school tenure, a distinction complemented by her four-time state championship victories. Her debut season in Madison holds the promise of leaving an indelible mark.
Wisconsin is slated to commence their season officially on Saturday, hosting Illinois-Chicago at 1 p.m. within the confines of the UW Field House
