Entering its first year in the Big 12, Colorado women's volleyball plans to gain respect in a tough conference. At the 71st CU fall sports media day, head coach Jesse Mahoney and three players spoke about the upcoming season.
The sophomore-heavy squad came up short of tournament play in its last season in the Pac-12. This year, a new slate of opponents brings a different challenge. Sophomore middle blocker Cayla Payne, senior setter Taylor Simpson, sophomore outside hitter Sydney Jordan and Mahoney discussed travel challenges, the Big 12 and the early home slate.
As a whole, there was a high level of excitement when discussing teams like Kansas and BYU—the young roster has yet to play against its new Big 12 counterparts. A change of scenery has kept the game exciting and created optimism amongst the group.
To open the season, the Buffs will be on the road at the North Texas Invitational. Jordan’s ties to the state make it particularly special since she will be able to spend more time near home. Mahoney acknowledged the many players with homes throughout the conference and across the season's many travel destinations.
The intense travel schedule will be one factor to navigate for the team this season. With more weekday games in the Big 12, players will miss more school than they typically would. Payne ensured academics would remain a priority despite concerns from players about expected absences.
The Buffs also face a unique situation with sophomore outside hitter Ana Burilović and freshman middle blocker Maria Spławska competing in the Women’s U20 Volleyball European Championship during the first half of August. Mahoney is prepared for them to return late but is not worried as they’re playing “really good competition.”
With many changes and three important roles needing to be filled, a quick start is crucial for the Buffs' success. To their advantage, the early schedule is heavily dominated by home play. The expectation is to use this time to gel and iron out the wrinkles.
After the North Texas Invitational is the Buffs Classic tournament, which will be held at the CU Events Center beginning on Sept. 6. The following weekend, the team hosts the Buffs Invitational, lasting until Sept. 15. They have a one-off home match against Northern Colorado in between the two tournaments on Sept. 11.
With 13 games set to take place on home court in that time frame, Colorado will have ample time to prepare themselves for conference play. Colorado State and Northern Colorado, CU’s instate opponents, add familiar competition before beginning league play.
If the Buffs were to experience early success, it could be the confidence boost needed to elevate themselves into conference play. The early home slate will be pivotal in shaping the season's outcome.
Cover photo by Talus Schreiber/Sko Buffs Sports
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