The Arizona volleyball team is preparing for an exciting season under Charita Stubbs as she enters her first season as head coach. This new roster features an impressive group of new additions. These players, both transfers and incoming freshmen, are set to have a significant impact on the team as they join the program for the 2023-24 season.
Six major additions highlight the volleyball offseason, with three of them being freshmen.
One of the standout freshmen joining the team is Kenzie Schoenhardt, a libero/defensive specialist. Schoenhardt honed her skills at AZ East Valley Juniors Volleyball Club for nine years and at AZ Storm Elite Volleyball Club for two years. Her high school career includes accolades such as being named the San Tan All-Region Defensive Player of the Year as a senior and earning first-team All-San Tan-Region honors twice. She was also recognized as the 6A All-Conference Defensive Player of the Year in her senior year at Gilbert High School. With a winning pedigree, Schoenhardt is ready to make her mark at the University of Arizona.
Another promising freshman is Journey Tucker, a 6-foot-3 middle blocker. Tucker‘s passion for the game and her determination to excel are evident in her dedication and skill set. Despite undergoing surgery in March 2022, she had a standout senior season afterwards, posting impressive stats of 1.9 kills per set on .406 hitting and 1.3 blocks per set. Her performance netted her First Team honors in the 5A Desert West Region. Tucker‘s athleticism, agility and eagerness to learn will undoubtedly make her a valuable asset to the Wildcats.
Giorgia Mandotti, a freshman libero/defensive specialist, brings a wealth of experience to the team. With a strong background in Italian volleyball, Mandotti trained at Pro Patria Volley Milano and achieved numerous accolades, including three-time Province champion and two-time regional champion. She also played a pivotal role in her team’s victory in the 2022 Italian Women Serie B1 League. Mandotti’s dedication to both academics and athletics led her to choose the University of Arizona, where she sees a cohesive team and a supportive staff that aligns with her goals.
The Wildcats have also welcomed some talented transfers to their roster.
Becca Morse, a junior libero/defensive specialist, transferred to Arizona after three seasons at the University of Oregon. She showcased her defensive prowess during her time at Oregon, totaling 221 digs and averaging 1.25 digs per set. Morse‘s experience and versatility will provide depth and stability to the Wildcats‘ backcourt.
Kalen Owes, a senior outside hitter, transferred to Arizona after a successful four-year stint at USC. Owes brings valuable experience and leadership to the team, having recorded 431 kills, 253 digs and 83 blocks during her career at USC. Her desire to continue her family legacy at Arizona played a significant role in her decision to join the Wildcats.
Jordan Wilson, a sophomore outside hitter, transferred to Arizona after one season at USC, where she was named to the 2022 Pac-12 All-Freshman Team. Wilson‘s impressive performance during her freshman year included 333 kills, 69 digs and 25 blocks. Her decision to transfer to Arizona was influenced by the exceptional athletic support and the welcoming environment she experienced, along with the desire to be closer to her family.
With the diverse range of skills, experience and competitive spirit brought by these new additions, the Arizona volleyball team could post a great season. Arizona fans can eagerly await the opportunity to witness the collective talent and potential of these athletes as they take the court in the 2023-24 season. Their achievements and passion for the game make them valuable assets to the program, and their presence poises the Wildcats for a season filled with excitement, synergy and determined performances on the court.
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