University of Tampa on the Rise
Tampa returns to action tonight, October 13, hosting Florida Southern as the Spartans look to continue their rise and maintain control of the SSC race.
The University of Tampa volleyball program continues to climb with purpose and confidence, and its latest performance only reinforces that momentum. The Spartans, ranked No. 3 nationally, delivered one of their most resilient efforts of the season in a five‑set comeback win over No. 9 Barry at the Bob Martinez Athletics Center. The victory keeps Tampa unbeaten in Sunshine State Conference play and further solidifies its standing among the nation’s elite.
The match showcased Tampa’s depth, poise and ability to respond under pressure. After taking the opening set, the Spartans dropped the next two frames and faced a 2‑1 deficit. Barry’s physicality and aggressive offense forced Tampa into uncomfortable stretches, but the Spartans never lost their composure. Their response in the fourth and fifth sets demonstrated the championship traits that have defined the program for decades.
Spartans Show Strength in Critical Moments
Tampa’s turnaround began with a determined fourth set. The Spartans built an early lead behind strong swings from Connor Rahn, Mak Carter and Ainhoa Molleja. Barry rallied late, tying the frame at 23‑23, but Tampa answered with a decisive finish from Julianna Baskin to force a fifth set.
The final frame belonged to Tampa’s veterans. Connor Rahn delivered clutch kills throughout the set, while Carter and Molleja provided timely blocks and finishes. Setter Jenna Glaudel added a key service ace as Tampa built an 8‑5 advantage at the side switch. Barry fought back to tie the score at 13‑13, but the Spartans closed with two straight points, sealing a 15‑13 win and completing the comeback.
Individual Performances Fuel the Climb
Rahn led the Spartans with 22 kills and 11 digs, hitting .413 in one of her strongest outings of the season. Carter added 15 kills and five solo blocks, while Molleja contributed 11 kills and steady defensive play. Glaudel and Kayla Dondero combined for 50 assists, keeping Tampa’s offense balanced throughout the match.
The Spartans hit .280 overall and out‑blocked Barry 9‑8, showing their ability to win both at the net and in transition. The victory moves Tampa to 16‑1 overall and 8‑0 in SSC play, extending its conference winning streak and strengthening its national profile.
