The Purdue Northwest Volleyball team are primed for a strong comeback in 2025. With a new sense of determination, a talented group of returners, and an influx of promising new players, the Pride is ready to make their mark in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). Led by Head Coach
Sean Douglas entering his fourth year at the helm, here's what fans can expect from the team as they prepare for a fresh season.
The 2024 campaign presented some hurdles for Purdue Northwest, with the team finishing the season with a 9-18 overall record and 5-11 in GLIAC play. Despite the team's solid efforts, there were key areas for improvement. The team were competitive in many matches but struggled to close out sets and capitalize on offensive opportunities. As they head into the 2025 season, the focus will be on tightening their defense, improving attack efficiency, and finishing matches strong.
On the offensive side, the squad averaged 15.08 points per set in 2024, led by seniors
Marina Gronkiewicz (Munster, Ind./Munster) and
Arra Cottrell (LeClaire, Iowa/Pleasant Valley). Gronkiewicz, with 250 total points and 214 kills on the season, was one of the team's most reliable outside hitters. Cottrell also had a standout year with 403.5 total points and a team-high 355 kills. Purdue Northwest will look to build on these performances and increase their offensive output.
Defensively, the team was led by
Livia Thomsen (Bettendorf, Iowa/Pleasant Valley), who tallied a team-high 415 digs and crossed the 1,000 digs career mark. Gronkiewicz also helped out defensively with 269 digs and 34 blocks, contributing to the team's overall defensive efficiency.
The 2025 roster will see many familiar faces as key returners take center stage in their final seasons or continue their development for another year.
- Marina Gronkiewicz (Munster, Ind./Munster) (Sr.) – Gronkiewicz will continue to be a critical force on the court. Her leadership, both offensively and defensively, will be essential to the Pride's success in 2025. With 250 points, 214 kills, and 269 digs in 2024, Gronkiewicz is poised for another standout season as an outside hitter and a primary passer.
- Arra Cottrell (LeClaire, Iowa/Pleasant Valley) (Sr.) – The versatile opposite hitter and three-time All-GLIAC honoree, who led the team in points and kills last season, will continue to be a key offensive weapon for Purdue Northwest. Her offensive consistency and leadership will be vital as the team aims for a bounce back campaign.
- Anika Huelskamp (Oxnard, Calif./Oxnard) (Jr.) – A reliable hitter and an important piece of the team's attack, Huelskamp's presence on the outside will provide a balanced offensive attack alongside Gronkiewicz and Cottrell. Her continued growth is crucial to the team's success in 2025.
- Livia Thomsen (Bettendorf, Iowa/Pleasant Valley) (Sr.) – A standout defensive specialist with over 400 digs in 2024, Thomsen's steady play in the back row will continue to anchor the team's defense. Her service play and ability to pass accurately will be key as the team strives to improve its consistency.
- Kennedy Rowzee (Rock Falls, Ill./Newman Central Catholic) (So.) – One of the top middle blockers for Purdue Northwest and the GLIAC in 2024, Rowzee had an impressive freshman campaign. With a strong blocking presence and the ability to contribute offensively, Rowzee will play a key role in the front court this season.
The squad also welcomes newcomers and freshmen
Chloe Deckard (La Porte, Ind./New Prairie) and
Lauren Brohm (Bettendorf, Iowa/Pleasant Valley) to the team as they look to make their mark on the program along with several young sophomores looking to make a larger impact this year on the court.
Fans can expect an exciting, competitive season as the team strives to put the setbacks of 2024 behind them and build a championship caliber program in 2025.
Purdue Northwest gets their season underway when they compete at the McKendree Invitational starting on Friday, September 5.
