After becoming a club a year ago, the Luther College Men’s Volleyball club team is in the beginning stages of their first official season. On February 11, they began their spring season by competing at UW-Green Bay, where they finished 2-3.

While the team was created last year, they participated in no official matches, making this their inaugural season. The group is led by their captains, setter Drew Jaeger (‘24) and middle blocker Finn Wallace (‘25). Both Jaeger and Wallace were founding members a season ago along with head coach Arturo Diaz.

“This year, the program has made huge strides,” Wallace said. “These guys have made so much great progress since they first showed up in the gym and it’s been an honor to help guide them and watch them along the way.”

Wallace leads the team with eight blocks, and has contributed to their success on the court. In just their first season they are ranked 16th in the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference. The team has goals to compete with top teams and to become ranked in the top 10 by the end of the season.

“The goals for the team this season are for us to compete at a high level and against great teams,” Wallace said. “Though we may not win, we want to establish our program and show what a group of young men can do in a short amount of time.”

Because the team is a club sport, they are able to be more flexible in constructing their roster. Wallace believes that it is an amazing opportunity for all people to join a sport and find enjoyment in it. The team consists of athletes, musicians, artists, scholars, and students of all walks of life. 

Beyond the court, the team has worked together to recruit, market, and fundraise for their team efforts. They manage a social media account that features insightful statistics, player content, and fundraising opportunities. Their efforts have led to them being more recognized on campus and online.

“If I had spoken to someone last spring about the club team, I think they’d be shocked to hear there even was one,” Wallace said. “But this year we’ve definitely made waves across campus.”

The team will continue their efforts when they host a home event on March 30 and 31. A tournament will be played on March 30, then they play three matches on March 31. To find their full schedule or check on their results follow them on all social media outlets.