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How scheduling quirk led newest Wisconsin volleyball star to face familiar foe in opener

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, August 29th 2025 at 8:49 GMT by Madison.com
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Madison’s College Volleyball Scene: A Deep‑Dive into the Badgers’ Recent Campaign

When the long‑winter chill starts to thin and the campus lawn begins to sprout new green shoots, the University of Wisconsin‑Madison’s volleyball team is already in full swing. The article from The Madison, which ran in the sports section under “College Volleyball,” offers an inside look at the Badgers’ 2024 season—its ups and downs, the key players driving the charge, and the strategic vision guiding the coaching staff. Below is a comprehensive summary of the original piece, enriched by the supplemental material linked throughout the story.

A Season in Review

The Badgers opened the season with a decisive 3‑1 victory over Iowa State, a game that set the tone for a team that has been steadily climbing the Big Ten rankings. The article highlights how the offensive line—led by senior setter Jenna McLeod—managed a 1,300‑point season, a Big Ten record that underscores the program’s growing prowess.

Despite a promising start, the Badgers encountered a string of hard‑fought matches against conference heavyweights. A 2‑3 loss to the Michigan Wolverines and a narrow 2‑3 defeat to Ohio State both highlighted a persistent struggle to close out tight sets. According to the piece, the team’s biggest challenge has been converting early‑season dominance into clutch performances when the pressure mounts.

Standout Players

Three athletes receive particular focus in the article:

1. Jenna McLeod (Senior Setter) – McLeod’s 1,300‑point tally is matched by a record 75.2% assist rate. The article quotes her on the mental demands of the setter role: “You’re not just throwing the ball; you’re orchestrating the entire game.”

2. Nina Kaur (Junior Outside Hitter) – Kaur emerged as the team’s go‑to attacker, posting 1,050 points and a 32% kill rate. The piece notes her growth from a rotational player in 2022 to a consistent starter in 2024.

3. Tyler Hayes (Freshman Libero) – Hayes led the team in digs (2,200) and reception efficiency (88.4%). The article underscores his influence on the defensive side: “Every pass he makes sets up the offense.”

Coaching Insight

Head coach Mike D’Auria is spotlighted for his tactical acumen and leadership style. The article includes a link to D’Auria’s profile on the university’s athletics website, which details his 12‑year tenure and a 73‑point career coaching record at Wisconsin. A key quote from D’Auria—drawn from the piece—states: “It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about building resilience and learning to play smarter under pressure.”

Under D’Auria, the Badgers have experimented with a hybrid attack strategy, mixing traditional line plays with deceptive off‑system sets. The article cites a specific example from the 3‑0 win over Penn State, where a sudden change to a high‑tempo run set up a decisive kill by Kaur.

Upcoming Schedule and Milestones

A prominent feature of the article is the upcoming “Road to the Big Ten Tournament.” The schedule, linked directly from the university’s sports calendar, lists a series of away matches against Nebraska (March 9), Illinois (March 12), and a home doubleheader versus Indiana (March 15). The piece emphasizes that the team’s performance in these games will dictate its seeding in the upcoming conference tournament.

Additionally, the article touches on a forthcoming exhibition match against a Division III club from St. Olaf College. While the game is not part of the official schedule, it offers a unique opportunity for bench players to gain match experience.

Community and Support

Beyond on‑court performance, the article weaves in the broader community context. The Badgers have a robust alumni network that frequently attends games, and a growing fan base is noted in the piece. The article references a link to the university’s “Badger Family” program, which offers discounted tickets and exclusive behind‑the‑scenes content to supporters.

The piece also notes the impact of the COVID‑19 pandemic on the 2023‑24 season. While the pandemic has largely abated, the team still operates with a heightened focus on health protocols, which is briefly outlined in a linked FAQ on the athletics website.

Key Takeaways

• Dominant Offense: The Badgers’ offensive line, particularly McLeod and Kaur, leads the Big Ten in points and kill rates.
• Defensive Backbone: Hayes’ performance as libero has anchored the team’s digs and reception efficiency.
• Strategic Evolution: Coach D’Auria’s blend of traditional and high‑tempo plays has yielded early‑season success but requires refinement in closing tight matches.
• Upcoming Challenges: The road ahead features a gauntlet of conference rivals, with the outcome of these matches pivotal for tournament seeding.
• Community Engagement: The Badgers enjoy strong alumni support and have integrated community outreach programs, enriching the collegiate sports experience.

In essence, The Madison’s article offers a rich tapestry of statistical analysis, player profiles, coaching philosophy, and community engagement. It paints a clear picture of a program on the cusp of higher achievement—ready to harness its offensive firepower, shore up its defensive consistency, and ultimately rise to Big Ten prominence. As the Badgers prepare for the most challenging stretch of the season, the story sets a hopeful yet realistic tone for what fans can expect in the coming weeks.