Washington State University (WSU) volleyball is making significant strides to strengthen its roster following the departure of nine players after the 2025 season. Among the notable exits are outside hitters Taryn Vrieling and Melina Christodoulou, middle blocker Camryn Lingenbrink, and setter Italia Bernal. Head coach Korey Schroeder and his coaching staff have proactively addressed these gaps by adding seven new players, including six transfers and one freshman. This acquisition strategy aims to enhance the team’s competitiveness heading into the upcoming season.
Strategic Additions Across Positions
The roster adjustments are not merely about filling vacancies; they involve strategic replacements that could potentially elevate the team’s performance.
In the middle blocker position, WSU retains Lucie Blažková while adding seniors Naomi White and Ella Smith. White arrives from Portland State University, where she notably outperformed Lingenbrink in several metrics during the 2025 season. With a hitting percentage of .342, 189 kills, and 117 blocks, White brings experience and skill that should contribute significantly to the Cougars’ front line.
Smith, despite limited playing time at Fresno State, adds veteran depth to the position which is crucial for maintaining team stability. While Lingenbrink’s contributions will be missed, White’s capabilities suggest a seamless transition into the lineup.
Enhancing Offensive Power
The departure of Vrieling, Christodoulou, and opposite hitter Krista Dooley has left a void in the offensive unit. The new trio of hitters—junior Madyn Cervellera, sophomore Emerson Matthews, and freshman Whitney Dewicki—possess impressive statistics that could surpass those of their predecessors. Last season, Cervellera achieved 378 kills, while Dewicki concluded her high school career with a remarkable 438 kills.
Cervellera and Matthews also showcased defensive prowess, recording 41 blocks each, which exceeds the defensive contributions of Vrieling and Christodoulou combined. Dewicki, despite being a newcomer, represents the youthful energy the Cougars need, contrasting with the older profiles of the departed players.
Schroeder has previously demonstrated the ability to adapt player roles effectively. For instance, outside hitters have transitioned into opposite positions successfully, giving the coaching staff flexibility in lineups.
Addressing the Setter Position
The loss of setter Italia Bernal represents one of the most significant challenges for WSU. Bernal, who recorded 1,377 assists and 409 digs over her two seasons, leaves a considerable gap in playmaking. To mitigate this, the Cougars signed junior Audrey Hollis, who previously showcased her potential at UC San Diego with 921 assists in her freshman year.
Hollis’ experience at the University of Hawai’i, where she contributed 125 assists and 49 digs as a backup setter, adds value to the roster. With returning setter Livia Ward, who posted 497 assists last season, Hollis will have the opportunity to share playmaking duties, thus maintaining the quality of setting crucial for the team’s offensive strategies.
Strengthening Defensive Depth
In the defensive specialist/libero role, the Cougars have made minimal changes, with only the departures of Jackie Carle and Kylie Wong, who collectively played 25 sets last season. The addition of senior transfer Chloe Heimlicher from Idaho State offers additional depth. Heimlicher’s experience, particularly her personal bests in her junior year, will be valuable, even if her playing time is uncertain due to the presence of established players like junior Tinons Munar Galmés and sophomore Maddy Joswick.
The Cougars’ offseason efforts reflect a commitment to not only replace outgoing players but also to enhance the overall team dynamics and performance. With a blend of experienced transfers and promising newcomers, WSU volleyball is poised for a competitive season ahead, aiming to build on its traditions of excellence.
