SAN DIEGO (Dec. 4) – The Alaska Anchorage volleyball team wrapped up its season with a tough loss to Alaska Fairbanks in the NCAA Div. II West Regional Championships. The final score was 25-21, 25-18, 25-15.
Junior outside hitter Lee Ivakina made a significant mark with eight kills and six digs, while freshman Trinity Byrne added six kills. Freshman setter Johana Malikova led the team with 14 assists and 10 digs. The Nanooks, making their first NCAA Tournament appearance, were driven by outside hitter’s impressive 14 kills. They will move on to face the top-seeded Point Loma in the next round.
UAA’s head coach Stacie Meisner expressed pride in the team’s achievements. “This year was incredible, especially during the second half of GNAC play,” she said. The Seawolves won their last six regular-season matches, ending in a four-way tie for the Great Northwest Athletic Conference title.
This was UAA’s 14th NCAA Tournament appearance and their eighth in the last 11 seasons. Their 23 wins tied for the eighth-most in the program’s history since 1980.
Senior libero Madison Galloway, who holds the No. 4 spot on UAA’s career digs list with 1,404 digs, reflected on her time with gratitude. “I’m thankful for this team and everyone who’s been part of it,” she said.
It was also the last game for senior outside hitter Tia Allen, who finished her career with impressive stats: 1,226 kills, 1,237 digs, and 109 aces. This achievement places her among a select group in GNAC history.
Recent trends show a growing interest in college volleyball, with increased viewership and participation rates. According to a 2021 NCAA report, women’s volleyball had a 21% increase in attendance at tournaments compared to previous years. This reflects a shift in sports viewership and a greater appreciation for women’s athletics.
As the team looks forward to next season, they aim to build on their successes and continue to inspire fans.
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