25 Facts About Cal Poly Volleyball

History of Cal Poly Volleyball

Cal Poly Volleyball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. Here are some fascinating facts about the program's journey over the years.

1. Cal Poly's volleyball program began in 1976, making it one of the earlier programs in NCAA women's volleyball history.
2. The team quickly found success, winning their first conference championship in 1981.
3. Cal Poly Volleyball has made multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament, with their first appearance in 1981.
4. The program has produced several All-Americans, showcasing the high level of talent that has come through the team.
5. In 2007, Cal Poly reached the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, marking one of their most successful seasons.

Notable Players

Over the years, many talented players have donned the Cal Poly jersey. These athletes have left a lasting impact on the program and the sport.

6. Jennifer Keddy, a standout middle blocker, was named an All-American in 2011.
7. Adlee Van Winden, another star player, earned multiple All-Big West honors during her time at Cal Poly.
8. Taylor Nelson, a skilled setter, was instrumental in leading the team to several successful seasons.
9. Torrey Van Winden, Adlee's sister, also made a significant impact, earning All-American honors in 2018.
10. Kristina Graven, an outside hitter, was a key player in the early 2010s and earned multiple accolades.

Coaching Staff

The coaching staff plays a crucial role in the success of any sports program. Cal Poly Volleyball has been fortunate to have some exceptional coaches over the years.

11. Jon Stevenson, who coached from 2005 to 2011, led the team to several NCAA Tournament appearances.
12. Sam Crosson, the current head coach, has continued to build on the program's success since taking over in 2019.
13. Caroline Walters, an assistant coach, has been with the program for over a decade and has played a significant role in player development.
14. The coaching staff emphasizes a strong work ethic and teamwork, which has been a cornerstone of the program's success.
15. Many former players have gone on to become coaches themselves, spreading the Cal Poly Volleyball philosophy to other programs.

Home Court Advantage

Playing at home can provide a significant boost to any team. Cal Poly Volleyball has enjoyed a strong home court advantage over the years.

16. The team plays its home games at Mott Athletics Center, which has a seating capacity of 3,032.
17. The passionate fan base, known as the "Mustang Maniacs," creates an electric atmosphere during home games.
18. Cal Poly has a strong home record, consistently winning a majority of their games at Mott Athletics Center.
19. The team's success at home has helped build a loyal following and a strong sense of community around the program.
20. The home court advantage has been a key factor in many of the team's most memorable victories.

Academic Excellence

Cal Poly Volleyball players excel not only on the court but also in the classroom. The program places a strong emphasis on academic success.

21. The team consistently achieves high academic marks, with many players earning Academic All-Big West honors.
22. Several players have been named to the CoSIDA Academic All-District and All-America teams.
23. The program has a strong graduation rate, with many players going on to successful careers after their time at Cal Poly.
24. The coaching staff and academic advisors work closely with players to ensure they balance their athletic and academic commitments.
25. The team's commitment to academic excellence is a source of pride for the program and the university.

Final Serve

Cal Poly Volleyball has a rich history and a promising future. From its early beginnings to its current status as a competitive force, the team has shown resilience and dedication. The Mustangs have produced numerous standout players, many of whom have gone on to achieve great things both on and off the court. The program's commitment to excellence is evident in its consistent performance and strong community support. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, there's no denying the excitement and passion that Cal Poly Volleyball brings to the game. So next time you're looking for some thrilling sports action, consider catching a match. You won't be disappointed. Keep an eye on this team—they're bound to make more headlines and set new records in the seasons to come. Go Mustangs!