Exciting Times for Oregon State Volleyball
The Oregon State volleyball team is riding high with a five-match winning streak. They’ll face off against their long-time rival, Oregon, on Thursday, before heading to Portland State on Saturday.
Key Numbers to Note
- .306: Lauren Rumel had the top hitting percentage at the ASICS Invitational, with 108 attacks.
- 0: Maëli Cormier had no errors in 24 swings, achieving 20 kills with a hitting rate of .417 against Montana State.
- 1: Rumel represented the only student-athlete from the West Coast Conference (WCC) on the gold medal-winning Team USA at the U23 NORCECA Pan American Games this August.
- 5: This winning streak is the longest for the Beavers since Head Coach Behonick took over in 2023.
- 137: This Thursday marks the 137th match between Oregon State and Oregon.
The Rivalry
The match against the Ducks this week is more than just another game; it’s a rivalry rekindled. While they last faced off in official competition in 2023, they’ve met twice in preseason exhibitions since then. It’s a quirky twist of history — both teams have a storied past, and this game reignites that competitive spirit.
Statistical Highlights
Oregon State ranks 18th in kills per set and 31st in blocks per set nationally. Notably, Nathalie Scholz is 15th in Division I for blocks per set, showcasing the Beavers’ solid defense.
Awards and Honors
Lauren Rumel was named the Offensive Player of the Week in the conference, racking up 43 kills. Alana Marrs shined too, receiving Freshman of the Week honors with her balanced performance of 26 kills and 12 blocks.
Upcoming Matches
After the rivalry game, Oregon State will visit Portland for their fourth consecutive year. With a historic meeting of the teams becoming more frequent, it’s a chance for teams to develop even greater camaraderie on the court.
International Flavor
Oregon State’s roster features international talent, reflecting the program’s broad appeal. This year, they showcase players from Canada, Turkey, and Germany, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of their student-athletes. This global presence is among the highest in the WCC, falling just short of San Francisco’s impressive seven international players.
Recent Trends
As volleyball gains popularity, social media has seen a surge in chatter about college rivalries. Twitter and Instagram are filled with excitement from fans and players alike, showcasing highlights and building anticipation for matchups.
In conclusion, as the Beavers advance through their season, they not only aim for victories but also for connections that enrich their team and its community. Whether it’s through international ties or fierce rivalries, the spirit of the game is alive and well at Oregon State.