Tickets// CINCINNATI - The University of Cincinnati volleyball team tunes up for the start of 2021 season when it hosts Miami (Ohio) for an exhibition match Friday, Jan. 15 at 6 p.m. ET at Fifth Third Arena.
UC's 2020 fall season and its defense of its 2019 American Athletic Conference title was delayed until spring 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Bearcats are coming off a stellar 2019 campaign that featured an AAC regular season title, the program's first NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 appearance, a No. 19 national ranking and a 27-7 overall record and 15-1 league mark.
"There is a sense of overwhelming excitement in our gym," UC head coach Molly Alvey said. "As a staff, we could not be more excited for our players to get this season started. The patience, composure and strength they have shown over the last 10 months is more than admirable.
"I am so very proud to be their coach and though our season doesn't officially start until the end of January, our exhibition match will be a good practice run. We cannot wait to take this opportunity to get better. I want to throw out an extra sentiment of gratitude to our entire medical staff, facilities personnel, and administration for their commitment to keeping us safe and making this season happen. While also extending a thank you to our parents and families for your continued support."
Juniors Maria Mallon, Armania Heckenmueller, Adria Oliver, Hannah Bolinger and Ashley Kozer lead UC's returners. Sophomores Kerstin Ficker, Madison Waters, and Payton Frederick will also be returning to help the Bearcats this season. Redshirt sophomores Shannon Williams, Kailea Carrier and Dimitra Tziarli will add experience to the roster. The strong freshmen class of Sarah Norcom, Alex Kwasnik, Bahar Kurtulus and Maria Tobergte also look to contribute.
Heckenmueller led the Bearcats with 212 assists in 2019, averaging 13.25 assists.
Mallon looks to help fill the role for Thompson this season as she returns for the Bearcats. During the 2019 season, Mallon averaged 3.79 kills. Thompson led the team averaging 6.38 kills.
Miami (Ohio) finished 17-12 overall and 12-4 in the Mid-American Conference in 2019. The RedHawks were MAC regular-season champions, falling to Ball State in the 2019 conference tournament semifinals.
UC officially begins the 2021 season on the road at Illinois State on Friday, Jan. 29 at 4 p.m. ET. The Bearcats home opener is set for Saturday, Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. against city-rival Xavier.
Due to compliance with COVID-19 protocols, matches will be limited to 300 fans at the start of the season. During this time attendance will be allowed by friends and family of staff and players.
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