The Final Road Trip: UC Davis Volleyball Aims for History
The UC Davis Aggies volleyball team is gearing up for a thrilling conclusion to their regular season road schedule, with two pivotal matchups in Long Beach and San Diego this weekend. But here's where it gets exciting: this isn't just about wrapping up the season; it's about making history. With a stellar 17-5 record and a dominant 13-1 conference standing, the Aggies are on the cusp of breaking records and solidifying their legacy in the Big West Conference. And this is the part most people miss: the team's success isn't just about winning games; it's about the individual stories of resilience, growth, and sheer talent that have propelled them to the top.
How to Catch the Action
For those eager to witness the Aggies in action, here’s how you can tune in:
- Nov. 14 at Long Beach State: Stream on ESPN+ or follow live stats and updates via @ucdaviswvb on X/Instagram.
- Nov. 15 at UC San Diego: Also available on ESPN+, with live stats and social media updates through the same channels.
A Season of Milestones
This season has been nothing short of remarkable for the Aggies. Let’s break down some of the key highlights:
- Postseason Secured: The Aggies became the first team in the Big West to clinch a postseason spot after sweeping UC Irvine and defeating Cal State Fullerton.
- National Recognition: Climbing the NCAA RPI rankings, the Aggies currently sit at #54, a testament to their consistent performance.
- Coaching Legacy: Head Coach Dan Conners is on the verge of becoming the winningest coach in program history, just two wins away from surpassing the legendary Kathy DeYoung’s record of 169 victories.
- Conference Dominance: With 13 conference wins, the Aggies have tied a program record and are poised to break it this weekend.
- Individual Excellence: Players like Jade Light, Ally Chandler, and Mia Starr have not only earned accolades but have also set new standards for the program.
Player Spotlights
- Jade Light: Secured her third Big West Player of the Week award, showcasing her offensive prowess with 31 kills across two matches.
- Ally Chandler & Allie Caldwell: This dynamic duo leads the conference in blocks, with Caldwell topping the charts and Chandler close behind. They’re on track to achieve a rare feat: both surpassing 100 blocks in a single season.
- Mia Starr: The junior setter continues to impress, ranking first in the Big West with 10.36 assists per set and surpassing 2,500 career assists.
- Brooke Hibino: After battling injuries, Hibino has emerged as a key contributor, ranking fourth on the team with 167 kills.
The Opponents
Long Beach State: The Beach, with a 17-8 record and 10-4 in conference play, will host the Aggies after facing UC Riverside. Redshirt freshman Logan King has been a standout, earning multiple Big West Freshman of the Week awards. Historically, the Aggies have struggled against the Beach, with a 7-32 all-time record, but they secured a 3-1 victory in their last meeting.
UC San Diego: The Tritons, at 6-20 overall and 4-10 in conference, will host the Aggies after playing UC Riverside. Sophomore Molly McCluskey leads the Big West in total points and kills, making her a player to watch. The Aggies previously defeated the Tritons in a thrilling five-set match earlier this season.
Looking Ahead
As the Aggies prepare for their final season in the Big West before moving to the Mountain West in 2026, the focus remains on qualifying for the Big West Tournament and extending their season into December. With a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, the future looks bright for UC Davis volleyball.
Controversial Question: With the Aggies' success this season, is it fair to say they’re the team to beat in the Big West, or do other contenders still pose a significant threat? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Final Thoughts
This weekend’s matchups are more than just games; they’re opportunities for the Aggies to cement their place in program history. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this is a team worth watching. Will they break records? Will they secure their legacy? Tune in to find out, and join the conversation as we celebrate the incredible journey of the UC Davis Aggies volleyball team.
