Wisconsin Volleyball’s Electrifying Second Season: A Triumphant Return to Glory
After a disappointing end to their 2021 season, the Wisconsin Badgers volleyball team returned with a vengeance in 2022. Led by All-American Dana Rettke and a talented group of newcomers, the Badgers dominated the Big 10 and reached the NCAA championship game, where they fell just short of the title to the Texas Longhorns.
A Dominant Start
The Badgers began the season with a 15-0 record, including wins over top-10 opponents Nebraska and Minnesota. Rettke was a force on the court, leading the team in kills and blocks. Sophomore libero Lauren Barnes also played a key role, anchoring the Badgers’ defense.
Mid-Season Struggles
Wisconsin’s undefeated streak came to an end with a loss to Purdue in late October. The Badgers then dropped two more matches in November, including a surprising upset to unranked Illinois. These losses raised questions about the team’s ability to compete for a national championship.
A Return to Form
The Badgers responded to their mid-season slump with a strong finish to the regular season. They won their final five matches, including a rematch against Purdue. In the Big Ten Tournament, the Badgers defeated Nebraska and Minnesota to claim the conference title.
NCAA Tournament Success
Wisconsin entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 2 seed. They cruised through the first two rounds, then defeated Purdue and Florida to reach the Final Four. In the semifinals, the Badgers faced the No. 1-seeded Louisville Cardinals. The match was a back-and-forth affair, but the Badgers ultimately prevailed in five sets.
Falling Short at the Finish
In the NCAA championship game, the Badgers faced the No. 2-seeded Texas Longhorns. Texas jumped out to an early lead, but the Badgers fought back to win the second and third sets. However, Texas regained the momentum in the fourth and fifth sets, and won the match 3-2.
Assessing the Season
Despite falling short of their ultimate goal, the Badgers’ 2022 season was a resounding success. They won 31 matches, claimed the Big Ten championship, and reached the NCAA championship game.
Rettke was a dominant force throughout the season, finishing her collegiate career with over 1,500 kills and 700 blocks. Barnes was also a standout, earning All-Big Ten honors. Newcomers Jade Demps and Sarah Franklin made significant contributions, and are expected to be key players for the Badgers in the years to come.
Looking Ahead
The Badgers will lose Rettke to graduation, but they return a talented core of players for the 2023 season. Demps and Franklin are both expected to take on larger roles, and the Badgers have added several promising recruits.
Wisconsin is poised to be a contender for the national championship again in 2023. The Badgers have a strong foundation of talented players, and they are led by one of the best coaches in the country in Kelly Sheffield.
Conclusion
Wisconsin Volleyball’s 2022 season was a triumphant return to glory. The Badgers dominated the Big Ten, reached the NCAA championship game, and proved that they are one of the best teams in the country. With a talented core of players returning for the 2023 season, the Badgers are poised to make another run at the national title.
