Sunday, 3 Nov 2024

Bajema Shines as U.S. Women’s Volleyball Team Defeats Belgium

Bajema Helps U.S. Women Best Belgium in VNL

U.S. Women’s National Team outside hitter Kara Bajema’s impressive performance has solidified her place as a valuable player, despite being in her first season with the team. In a recent Volleyball Nations League (VNL) match against Belgium, Bajema led all scorers with 20 points, helping the U.S. Women secure a 3-0 victory (25-16, 25-21, 25-19) in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Bajema’s Stellar Performance

Bajema showcased her skills with 18 kills, a .536 hitting efficiency, one block, and one ace. Her remarkable debut with the Women’s National Team during the VNL preliminary play in Shreveport, La., earned her a spot in two matches. Despite not being on the roster for the second week in the Philippines, she seamlessly joined the lineup against Belgium.

“We have multiple rosters we can throw out every week,” Bajema said. “I think that’s what makes Team USA so amazing. I felt really comfortable out there, and we had a good group going.”

Bajema also praised the team for their welcoming environment, making her transition into the team smooth. “That’s credit to the people I have around me,” she said. “The staff, the players, they’re being really communicative on and off the court. It’s just a really fun program to be in.”

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Impressive Contributions from the Team

Olympic setter Jordyn Poulter made her first appearance of the 2022 season for the U.S. Women’s Team, demonstrating her skill with a match-high three blocks and setting the team to a .392 hitting efficiency. Opposite Annie Drews contributed 15 points with 12 kills, two blocks, and one ace. Outside hitter Kelsey Robinson scored 12 points with 11 kills and one block.

The team’s middle blockers also made significant contributions, with Dana Rettke earning six points through four kills, one block, and one ace, and Tori Dixon adding five points through four kills and one block. Libero Justine Wong-Orantes, who served as the team captain, showcased her defensive prowess with five digs and three successful receptions.

Recovery of Stolen Olympic Medal

In an unrelated event, the Anaheim Police Department recently recovered Jordyn Poulter’s stolen Olympic gold medal. The medal, which had been stolen on May 25, was found by the owners of Anaheim’s Noel Barber Shop, Maria Carillo and Noe Hernandez, who discovered it in a plastic bag on their property. Anaheim police have subsequently apprehended a suspect believed to be responsible for the theft.

Poulter expressed her gratitude for the couple who returned the medal and to everyone involved in the case. “It is very exciting and surprising news that the medal has been found and recovered,” Poulter said. “A huge thank you to the couple who returned it to the Anaheim PD, as well as to everyone who has helped in this case. I am forever grateful!”

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Recognition for Wisconsin Star Dana Rettke

Dana Rettke, one of the U.S. Women’s National Team’s middle blockers, has received two significant honors in recent days. She was named the University of Wisconsin’s Athlete of the Year for 2021-22 and the Big Ten Conference Female Athlete of the Year. This marks the second time Rettke has received each accolade, highlighting her exceptional talent and contributions to the sport.

FAQs

1. How did Kara Bajema perform in the match against Belgium?
Bajema led all scorers with 20 points, showcasing her skills with 18 kills, a .536 hitting efficiency, one block, and one ace.

2. Who made their first appearance for the U.S. Women’s Team in the 2022 season?
Olympic setter Jordyn Poulter made her first appearance, demonstrating her talent with a match-high three blocks and setting the team to a .392 hitting efficiency.

3. How did Dana Rettke receive recognition recently?
Dana Rettke was named the University of Wisconsin’s Athlete of the Year for 2021-22 and the Big Ten Conference Female Athlete of the Year.

Conclusion

Kara Bajema’s standout performance, along with the contributions of the U.S. Women’s National Team, secured an impressive victory over Belgium in the VNL. The team’s cohesion and welcoming environment have made Bajema’s integration seamless, highlighting the supportive nature of the program. Additionally, the recovery of Jordyn Poulter’s stolen Olympic gold medal and the recognition bestowed upon Dana Rettke further add to the team’s success and determination.