Virginia Tech Volleyball Team Overview And Recent Highlights

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The Virginia Tech volleyball team has been a prominent force in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) for many years. With a rich history of producing talented players and competing at a high level, the Hokies have established themselves as a program to be reckoned with in the world of college volleyball.

Team History and Achievements

The Virginia Tech volleyball team was established in 1976 and has since become a staple of the university's athletic department. Over the years, the Hokies have experienced their fair share of successes, including multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and conference championships. In 2013, the team won its first ACC Championship, defeating the University of Miami in the title match. This victory marked a significant milestone for the program and demonstrated its ability to compete with the best teams in the conference.

Notable Players and Coaches

The Virginia Tech volleyball team has produced several notable players and coaches throughout its history. One of the most successful players in program history is Lindsey Owens, a middle blocker who played for the Hokies from 2004 to 2007. Owens was a three-time All-American and helped lead the team to two NCAA Tournament appearances during her time at Virginia Tech. Another notable player is Katie Esbrook, a libero who played for the Hokies from 2009 to 2012. Esbrook was a two-time All-American and set multiple school records for digs and digs per set.

As for coaches, the most notable is Chris Riley, who served as the team's head coach from 1998 to 2012. Riley led the Hokies to six NCAA Tournament appearances and was named the ACC Coach of the Year in 2003.

Recent Highlights and Season Overview

The Virginia Tech volleyball team has experienced its fair share of successes in recent years. In the 2020 season, the Hokies finished with a 14-8 overall record and a 10-8 mark in the ACC. The team was led by outside hitter Kaity Smith, who was named a Second-Team All-American by the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA).

In the 2022 season, the Hokies improved upon their previous year's record, finishing with a 20-10 overall mark and a 12-8 record in the ACC. The team was led by middle blocker Cara Cunningham, who was named a First-Team All-American by the AVCA.

Conference and Tournament Performance

The Virginia Tech volleyball team has a rich history of competing in the ACC and NCAA Tournaments. In the 2020 ACC Tournament, the Hokies advanced to the semifinals, where they ultimately fell to the University of North Carolina. In the 2022 NCAA Tournament, the Hokies received an at-large bid and advanced to the second round, where they were defeated by the University of Wisconsin.

Team Statistics and Rankings

The Virginia Tech volleyball team has consistently ranked among the top teams in the ACC and NCAA in various statistical categories. In the 2020 season, the Hokies ranked second in the ACC in blocks per set (2.83) and third in hitting percentage (.246).

In the 2022 season, the Hokies ranked first in the ACC in digs per set (17.35) and second in kills per set (13.45). The team also ranked 15th nationally in blocks per set (2.73) and 20th nationally in hitting percentage (.250).

Award and Honors

The Virginia Tech volleyball team has received numerous awards and honors over the years. In the 2020 season, outside hitter Kaity Smith was named a Second-Team All-American by the AVCA, while middle blocker Cara Cunningham was named a First-Team All-American in the 2022 season.

In addition, several players have been named to the ACC All-Tournament Team, including outside hitter Kaity Smith in 2020 and middle blocker Cara Cunningham in 2022.

Facilities and Fan Engagement

The Virginia Tech volleyball team plays its home games at Cassell Coliseum, a 10,052-seat arena located on the university's campus in Blacksburg, Virginia. The coliseum has hosted numerous volleyball matches over the years and has become a staple of the university's athletic department.

The team has a strong following among Virginia Tech students and fans, with many attending matches throughout the season. The Hokies also have a strong social media presence, with thousands of followers on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Community Involvement and Outreach

The Virginia Tech volleyball team is actively involved in the local community, participating in various outreach and charitable events throughout the year. In 2020, the team participated in the annual "Volley for the Cure" event, which raises money for breast cancer research. The team has also visited local schools and hospitals, promoting the sport of volleyball and inspiring young athletes.