Monday, 15 Jul 2024

Collegiate National Team Shines at European Global Challenge

The U.S. Collegiate National Team-Europe triumphed in the European Global Challenge, delivering an impressive performance in Pula, Croatia. In a thrilling final match against the Mountain West Conference All-Stars, they secured a decisive 25-16, 25-23, 25-17 victory.

Head coach Dani Busboom Kelly expressed her pride in the team’s exceptional display. She commended their focus and determination, highlighting how they saved their best performance for the last day of the tournament. This growth and transformation over the course of the 10-day event truly stand out. Coach Kelly also emphasized the team’s incredible dynamics, their unwavering support for each other, and their individual talents. Their cohesion and versatility were apparent, as any player on the team could seamlessly join the lineup without missing a beat.

The U.S. team displayed dominance in their offensive game, converting 40% of their kills and outscoring the Mountain West Conference in kills, 29-28. However, it was the team’s formidable blocking and serving that truly set them apart. With 15 blocks compared to the MWC’s 7, and 11 service aces, including an impressive seven by Taylor Mims from Washington State, the Collegiate National Team demonstrated their skills on all fronts. In the blocking department, Mims led the team with four blocks, closely followed by Iowa State’s Jess Schaben with three.

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Taylor Mims expressed her personal growth during the tour, crediting the intensity and high-level play of her fellow teammates from various colleges. The competitive environment brought out the best in each player and allowed them to raise their game. The camaraderie and shared goal of achieving excellence propelled the team forward.

Notable contributions came from Leah Edmond from Kentucky, who led the team with eight kills, and Jess Schaben, who added six kills. August Raskie from Oregon showcased her serving prowess with two aces. In recognition of her outstanding performance throughout the tournament, Raskie was named to the all-tournament team.

The starting lineup for the match included Schaben and Edmond as outside hitters, Kirstie Hillyer from Colorado State and Berkley Oblad from Utah as middle blockers, Mims as opposite, Raskie as setter, and Alexis Dirige from Washington State as libero.

The U.S. Collegiate National Team-Europe’s journey in the European Global Challenge was marked by resilience, composure, and consistent play. They overcame challenges and demonstrated their skills, ultimately emerging as deserving champions. This victory serves as a testament to their talent, dedication, and passion for the game.

FAQs

Q: How did the U.S. Collegiate National Team-Europe perform in the European Global Challenge?

A: The U.S. Collegiate National Team-Europe showcased an outstanding performance and emerged as the champions of the European Global Challenge.

Q: What were the key factors that contributed to their victory?

A: The team’s dominance in blocking and serving played a crucial role in their success. They outperformed their opponents in both areas, with 15 blocks and 11 service aces.

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Q: Who were the standout players for the U.S. Collegiate National Team-Europe?

A: Taylor Mims from Washington State demonstrated her exceptional skills, leading the team with four blocks and contributing seven service aces. Leah Edmond from Kentucky stood out with eight kills, while August Raskie from Oregon showcased her serving prowess with two aces.

Q: How did the team’s performance evolve throughout the tournament?

A: The U.S. team displayed continuous growth and improvement over the course of the tournament. They saved their best performance for the final day, highlighting their ability to adapt, learn, and excel.

Summary

The U.S. Collegiate National Team-Europe emerged victorious in the European Global Challenge, showcasing their exceptional skills and teamwork. Head coach Dani Busboom Kelly praised the team’s growth and composure, emphasizing their commitment and support for each other. The team’s dominance in blocking and serving propelled them to success. Taylor Mims, Leah Edmond, and August Raskie delivered standout performances, contributing to the team’s remarkable journey. This triumph serves as a testament to their talent, dedication, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.