Historic WAC Triumph

UTA volleyball stormed into the record books this November, capturing its first regular-season championship since 2002, then going on to claim its first Western Athletic Conference (WAC) title in program history with a nail-biting 3-2 win over defending champions, the Grand Canyon Lopes.

“These athletes once again had their backs to the wall, and they were able to pull through,” head coach J.T. Wenger said after the match.

The Mavericks trailed throughout and were four points away from losing the title in both the fourth and fifth sets. The team pulled through in dramatic fashion in the end, with a thunderous crowd chanting “UTA” behind them.

“Our fans were electric tonight, and they stayed with us even when we were down,” Wenger said.

Brianna Ford, the WAC Player of the Year, was named the tournament’s most outstanding player with 25 kills, 16 digs, and five blocks. Sjakkie Donkers recorded 12 kills and 26 digs, and Mollie Blank had a match-high 56 assists and 13 digs. The trio was named to the WAC All-Tournament Team.

The team put forth a valiant effort in the NCAA tournament, but ultimately lost in the first round.

“It was a remarkable season,” Wenger said. “This team did so many amazing things this year, and I am so proud of them.”

Watch a mini movie documenting the team’s comeback victory.