The Metro State University Denver (MSU Denver) volleyball team has achieved a historic milestone, clinching the NCAA Division II Volleyball National Championship. This momentous victory marks the first time in the program’s history that the Roadrunners have ascended to the pinnacle of collegiate volleyball. The championship win was secured on Saturday evening, culminating a remarkable season filled with grit, determination, and a flair for the dramatic upset.
The Roadrunners, entering the tournament as the No. 4 seed, faced a formidable opponent in the championship match: Concordia-St. Paul, the No. 2 seed. In a thrilling 3-1 victory, MSU Denver demonstrated their prowess and proved they were a force to be reckoned with. This triumph over a highly-ranked opponent was not an anomaly; it was a testament to their ability to perform under pressure. Earlier in the tournament, they had also achieved a stunning upset, defeating the previously undefeated No. 1 seed, Tampa, in a decisive 3-0 sweep.
The championship final, held at the Sanford Pentagon arena in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, saw MSU Denver start strong. They secured the first set with a 25-22 win, setting a confident tone for the match. The momentum continued into the second set, where they posted another convincing victory, 25-20. Concordia-St. Paul, however, showed resilience and attempted a comeback in the third set, claiming it 25-20 and injecting an element of suspense into the contest. Despite the shift in momentum, MSU Denver regrouped and delivered a decisive performance in the fourth set, winning 25-21 to seal their national championship title.
This championship is a testament to the collective effort and individual brilliance of the entire MSU Denver squad. Several players delivered outstanding statistical performances throughout the tournament and particularly in the final match:
Key Player Statistics in the Championship Match:
Kills:
- Megan Hagar: 18
- Brooke Gennerman: 16
- Karyna Werley: 10
Aces:
- GabriElle Brewer: 2
- Karyna Werley: 1
Blocks:
- Kryssa Moerman: 5
- Karyna Werley: 5
- Alyssa Boyte: 4
Assists:
- GabriElle Brewer: 29
- Karyna Werley: 25
- Mia Accomazzo: 3
Digs:
- Megan Hagar: 18
- Mia Accomazzo: 13
- Emerson Dillon: 9
The journey to the national championship was built upon an exceptional season record of 32-3. Within the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), the team dominated with a 13-1 conference record. A significant part of their success was an incredible 23-game winning streak that propelled them through the latter half of the season and into the postseason.
As the players left the court for the final time this year, the weight of their accomplishment was palpable. They celebrated not just a championship title, but the culmination of countless hours of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. This victory is a shining example of what can be achieved through cohesive teamwork and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
The MSU Denver Roadrunners have etched their names in history as the 2025 NCAA Division II Volleyball National Champions. Their remarkable achievement serves as an inspiration and a proud moment for the university and its athletic program. The team will undoubtedly carry this winning spirit forward as they look ahead to future seasons, eager to build upon this historic success.