Bowling Green, KY, August 25, 2025
News Summary
The Western Kentucky University volleyball team is set to launch its 2025 season by hosting the WKU Invitational at E.A. Diddle Arena. Scheduled for August 29-30, the Invitational features teams including Wright State, Loyola (Chicago), and Drake. With a strong roster and high expectations from the Conference USA Preseason poll, the Hilltoppers aim to build on their previous season’s success and make a strong push towards the NCAA Tournament.
BOWLING GREEN, KY – WKU Volleyball Launches 2025 Season with WKU Invitational
The Western Kentucky University (WKU) volleyball team is ready to kick off its 2025 season as they host the WKU Invitational this weekend at E.A. Diddle Arena. The matches are scheduled for August 29 and 30, featuring fierce competition against teams from Wright State, Loyola (Chicago), and Drake.
WKU’s head coach, Travis Hudson, has indicated the challenges that lie ahead, emphasizing the intense competition the team will face from these mid-major programs during the opening week. The Hilltoppers are coming off a successful previous season, boasting an impressive record of 28-7 and achieving a perfect 18-0 record at home. This season, they aim to build on their aspirations for the NCAA Tournament.
This year, WKU is bringing back a strong roster, including three preseason candidates for Player of the Year. Senior setter Callie Bauer returns after being named the Conference USA Setter of the Year last season, during which she recorded 1,387 assists, the highest in her conference and third in the nation. Additionally, sophomore outside hitter Alivia Skidmore enters the season after a standout rookie year, tallying 344 kills and a hitting percentage of .263. Junior middle hitter Izzy Van De Wiele also looks to make an impact with her impressive 177 total blocks in 2024, ranking her fourth nationally.
In the Conference USA Preseason poll, WKU was picked to finish first, receiving eight out of twelve first-place votes, showcasing the high expectations for the team this season. Their non-conference schedule remains challenging, with notable matchups against ranked teams like No. 24 Dayton and competitive programs such as Vanderbilt, a first-year program.
The upcoming WKU Invitational is a part of a rigorous non-conference calendar, as several of the opponents finished among the top 100 teams last year. Coach Hudson is also focusing on integrating new freshmen into the lineup, aiming to establish the team’s playing style from the outset of the season.
After a summer of preparation and an exhibition match against Bellarmine, the WKU volleyball team is anticipated to be stronger defensively this season. Key goals for the program include maximizing team performance, fostering strong connections among players, and building overall confidence on the court.
Key Features of WKU Volleyball 2025 Season
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Season Start | Hosting WKU Invitational on August 29-30, 2025 |
| Key Competitors | Wright State, Loyola (Chicago), and Drake |
| Previous Season Record | 28-7 overall; 18-0 at home |
| Notable Players | Callie Bauer, Alivia Skidmore, Izzy Van De Wiele |
| Preseason Ranking | Picked to finish first in Conference USA |
| Defensive Focus | Strengthened through summer practice and exhibition matches |
FAQ
When does the WKU Volleyball season start?
The WKU Volleyball season kicks off with the WKU Invitational on August 29 and 30, 2025.
What teams will WKU compete against in the Invitational?
WKU will face Wright State, Loyola (Chicago), and Drake during the Invitational.
Who are the key returning players for WKU Volleyball?
Key returning players include senior setter Callie Bauer, sophomore outside hitter Alivia Skidmore, and junior middle hitter Izzy Van De Wiele.
What are WKU’s goals for the 2025 season?
WKU aims to perform well in the NCAA Tournament, build strong player connections, and enhance their overall defensive and team performance.
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Additional Resources
- WKU Volleyball Places Three on CUSA Preseason All-Conference Squad
- Wikipedia: Volleyball
- Bowling Green Daily News: WKU Volleyball Preview
- Google Search: WKU Volleyball
- WKU Volleyball Announces 2025 Promotional Schedule
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Volleyball
- WKU Volleyball Announces New Courtside Seats and 2025 Schedule
- Google News: WKU Volleyball 2025
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