The 2021 Divison-I women's volleyball season is projected to be one for the ages. Not only are the athletes ready to be back on the court and give it their all after they haven't had a great season for the past two years, but there are some big names returning for this season.
The Wisconsin Badgers have some of the top athletes in the nation at the moment and are projected to win this season's NCAA championship. They have two top, All-American athletes that are going to take their team to new heights.
Dana Rettke
Dana Rettke's list of accomplishments is long and impressive. She started out her career at Wisconsin in 2017, earning the title of Freshman of the Year. She's been placed on the First-Team All American every year since 2017.
This 6'8 middle blocker dedicates immense time and effort to keep up her skill as an athlete. She has been in the Big Ten for Player of the Year, Freshman of the Year, Player of the Week, Freshman of the Week, and Defensive Player of the Week. She doesn't take these titles lightly, proving herself worthy of them every season.
She describes herself as "passionate" and her team as "experienced" meaning that together, she believes that her team can be the best of the best. Kickstarting the season, Rettke left nothing on the court.
Sofar in this season Dana has gone above and beyond, sofar having 50 kills in their 5 games. That is a 10 kill per game average and is a positive start toward a successful season. She has a .55 average in attack % for their first 5 games.
Sydney Hilley
Sydney Hilley's Wisconsin volleyball career has been nothing short of awe-striking. Of all her years on the team, she has played as a starter in all but one. She's a 2019 and 2020 First Team All-American. Her 6' stature is on the shorter side for the team, but she doesn't let that stop her in giving it her all.
Hilley is an essential part of the team as it's setter and, essentially, control tower. She was the 2019 and 2020 Big Ten Setter of the year and shows that by her actions on the court. She's got big dreams for her team, striving to win a collegiate championship.
She's a winner, a dedicated female athlete that is focused on reaching her goals. She believes in her team and counts on them as much as they count on her. Hilley knows the sacrifices that playing on a team sport comes with and is willing to do anything to bring her team to the top.
This season so far she has collected a total of 19.5 points in their 5 games. Her most impressive statistic at this time is her season high of 44 assists in one game while playing against Kentucky.
Make sure that you're paying attention to these two incredible female athletes when watching this seasons Division I volleyball teams. Both Hilley and Rettke are going to attempt to lead their team to victory.
Keep an eye out for the Wisconsin Badgers and which players rise to the occasion this season.
