Sign in Subscribe
College sports

Concordia University, Nebraska Volleyball Program Aiming for Dominance in 2025

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the Bulldogs prepare to take on the 2025 season, they are fuelled by a desire to push beyond their recent accomplishments and achieve something truly remarkable. Under the guidance of coaches Ben and Angie Boldt, the team has achieved remarkable consistency, with active streaks of six-straight trips to the NAIA national championship final site and four-consecutive GPAC championship match appearances.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 2025 team is led by First Team All-American outside hitter Ashley Keck, as well as fellow First Team All-GPAC honoree pin hitter Ella Waters, and two other 2024 all-conference honorees in right side Addie Kirkegaard and setter Savannah Shelburne.
  • The Bulldogs return a strong offense, expecting to rank among the national leaders in categories such as kills per set and hitting percentage. They will roll out five returners who notched more than 100 kills last season: Keck (379), Waters (293), Kirkegaard (237), Kya Scott (227), and Ava Greene (109).
  • The team's defense is also strong, with senior Savannah Shelburne and Lily Psencik returning as setters to facilitate a powerful attack. The back row is where Bulldog fans will see the most significant change, with the graduation of libero Becca Gebhardt and fellow defensive specialist Cassidy Knust.
  • Head Coach Ben Boldt emphasizes the importance of "letting it rip" and going for it in clutch moments, rather than playing it safe. This theme has become a central focus for the team in 2025.
  • The Bulldogs have a strong record over the past three seasons, with a combined record of 77-14. However, they are seeking to push beyond their recent accomplishments and achieve a GPAC championship and national championship.

Statistics:

  • Kills per season: 379 (Ashley Keck), 293 (Ella Waters), 237 (Addie Kirkegaard), 227 (Kya Scott), and 109 (Ava Greene)
  • Hits per set: 14.16 (sophomores Savannah Shelburne and Lily Psencik in 2024)
  • Hitting percentage: 0.295 (Ella Waters in 2024)
  • Number of returners with over 100 kills in 2024: 5

Sources:

  • Concordia University, Nebraska Athletics
  • Lincoln, NE: Lincoln Journal Star

Read more