Mankato State University volleyball is a Division II program that competes in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Mavericks have won three NSIC championships (2005, 2008, and 2010) and have made 11 NCAA Tournament appearances. In 2018, the Mavericks finished with a 26-9 record and advanced to the NCAA Tournament quarterfinals.
Editor’s Note:Mankato State University volleyball is a successful program with a rich history. The Mavericks are consistently competitive in the NSIC and have made several deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Mankato State University volleyball, including the program’s history, current roster, and schedule.
We’ve done the analysis, dug through the information, and put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences
| Mankato State University volleyball | |
|---|---|
| Conference | Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) |
| Head Coach | Matt Margraf |
| Record | 26-9 (2018) |
| NCAA Tournament Appearances | 11 |
Main Article Topics
- History of Mankato State University volleyball
- Current roster
- Schedule
- Tickets
- Links to other resources
1. History
The history of Mankato State University volleyball is a long and successful one. The Mavericks have been playing volleyball since 1972 and have won three NSIC championships (2005, 2008, and 2010). The program’s success is due in part to the dedication of its players and coaches, as well as the strong support of the university and the community.
The Mavericks’ first NSIC championship came in 2005. The team finished the regular season with a 24-6 record and then won the NSIC Tournament championship match against the University of Sioux Falls. The Mavericks made their first NCAA Tournament appearance that year, but they lost in the first round to the University of Nebraska-Kearney.
The Mavericks won their second NSIC championship in 2008. The team finished the regular season with a 26-5 record and then won the NSIC Tournament championship match against Augustana University. The Mavericks made their second NCAA Tournament appearance that year, and they advanced to the second round before losing to the University of Northern Colorado.
The Mavericks won their third NSIC championship in 2010. The team finished the regular season with a 27-4 record and then won the NSIC Tournament championship match against the University of Sioux Falls. The Mavericks made their third NCAA Tournament appearance that year, and they advanced to the third round before losing to the University of Nebraska-Kearney.
The Mavericks’ success in recent years is due in part to the leadership of head coach Matt Margraf. Margraf has been the head coach of the Mavericks since 2005, and he has led the team to three NSIC championships and three NCAA Tournament appearances.
The Mavericks are a well-respected program in Division II volleyball. They are consistently ranked among the top teams in the NSIC, and they have a strong chance of making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament every year.
The history of Mankato State University volleyball is one of success and tradition. The Mavericks are a proud program with a bright future.
Key Insights:
- Mankato State University volleyball has a long and successful history.
- The Mavericks have won three NSIC championships.
- The Mavericks are consistently ranked among the top teams in the NSIC.
- The Mavericks have a strong chance of making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament every year.
2. Conference
The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) is a NCAA Division II athletic conference that competes in 23 sports for men and women, ranging from football to volleyball. The conference footprint primarily covers the Upper Midwest region of the United States, stretching from Minnesota and Iowa in the east to South Dakota and Nebraska in the west. Mankato State University volleyball has been a member of the NSIC since 1992 and has enjoyed great success within the conference. The Mavericks have won three NSIC championships (2005, 2008, and 2010) and have made 11 NCAA Tournament appearances.
- Competition Level: The NSIC is a highly competitive Division II conference, and Mankato State University volleyball has consistently performed well against its conference rivals. The Mavericks have won three of the last nine NSIC championships and have made the NCAA Tournament in each of the last four seasons.
- Regional Exposure: The NSIC provides Mankato State University volleyball with a regional platform to showcase its program. The conference has a strong following in the Upper Midwest, and the Mavericks’ success has helped to raise the profile of the program both regionally and nationally.
- Scheduling Advantages: The NSIC schedule provides Mankato State University volleyball with a challenging and balanced schedule. The Mavericks play a mix of in-conference and out-of-conference games, which helps them to prepare for the NCAA Tournament.
- Rivalries: The NSIC is home to some of the top Division II volleyball programs in the country, and Mankato State University volleyball has developed several intense rivalries with other conference members. These rivalries add an extra level of excitement to the Mavericks’ season and help to motivate the team to perform at its best.
Mankato State University volleyball’s success in the NSIC is a testament to the program’s strong tradition and commitment to excellence. The Mavericks are a well-respected program in Division II volleyball, and they are always a threat to win the NSIC championship and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
3. Head Coach
Matt Margraf is the head coach of the Mankato State University volleyball team. He has been the head coach since 2005 and has led the Mavericks to three NSIC championships (2005, 2008, and 2010) and 11 NCAA Tournament appearances. Margraf is a highly successful coach who has helped to elevate the Mavericks volleyball program to new heights.
- Leadership: Margraf is a strong leader who has the respect of his players. He is able to motivate his players to perform at their best and has a knack for getting the most out of his team.
- Game Strategy: Margraf is a brilliant game strategist who is able to outsmart his opponents. He is always one step ahead and is able to make adjustments on the fly.
- Player Development: Margraf is committed to player development. He works with his players both on and off the court to help them reach their full potential.
- Community Involvement: Margraf is actively involved in the community. He is a role model for his players and is always willing to give back to the community.
Margraf is a key part of the success of Mankato State University volleyball. He is a great coach and a great leader. He is a valuable asset to the university and the community.
4. Record
The Mavericks’ 26-9 record in 2018 is a testament to the program’s success. The team finished with a winning percentage of .743, which was the fourth-best winning percentage in the NSIC. The Mavericks also finished the season ranked No. 25 in the AVCA Division II Coaches Poll.
- Strong Offense: The Mavericks had one of the most potent offenses in the NSIC in 2018. The team averaged 13.4 kills per set, which was the third-highest average in the conference. The Mavericks also had a hitting percentage of .263, which was the fourth-highest hitting percentage in the NSIC.
- Balanced Attack: The Mavericks had a balanced attack in 2018. Four players averaged at least 3.0 kills per set. This balance made it difficult for opponents to key on any one player.
- Strong Defense: The Mavericks also had a strong defense in 2018. The team averaged 17.3 digs per set, which was the third-highest average in the NSIC. The Mavericks also had 2.7 blocks per set, which was the fifth-highest average in the NSIC.
- Leadership: The Mavericks were led by a group of experienced players in 2018. The team had five seniors and four juniors on the roster. This leadership helped the Mavericks to stay focused and motivated throughout the season.
The Mavericks’ success in 2018 is a sign of the program’s bright future. The team has a strong foundation of talent and experience, and they are poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament in the years to come.
5. NCAA Tournament Appearances
The NCAA Tournament is the most prestigious event in Division II volleyball. The Mavericks’ 11 NCAA Tournament appearances are a testament to the program’s success and consistency.
- Competitive Success: The Mavericks have been one of the most successful teams in the NSIC in recent years. They have won three NSIC championships in the past 10 years and have made 11 NCAA Tournament appearances during that time.
- National Recognition: The Mavericks’ NCAA Tournament appearances have helped to raise the profile of the program nationally. The Mavericks are now recognized as one of the top Division II volleyball programs in the country.
- Player Development: The Mavericks’ success in the NCAA Tournament has helped to attract top recruits to the program. The Mavericks have a strong tradition of developing players and helping them reach their full potential.
- Community Support: The Mavericks’ NCAA Tournament appearances have generated excitement and support from the community. The Mavericks have a large and passionate fan base that supports the team both at home and on the road.
The Mavericks’ NCAA Tournament appearances are a source of pride for the university and the community. The Mavericks are a successful and respected program that represents Mankato State University well on the national stage.
6. Home Arena
The Taylor Center is a 5,000-seat arena that is located on the campus of Mankato State University. The arena is named after Dr. Richard Taylor, who was the president of Mankato State University from 1971 to 1990. The Taylor Center is the home to the Mavericks volleyball team, as well as the men’s and women’s basketball teams.
The Taylor Center is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the Mavericks volleyball team with a great home court advantage. The arena is well-lit and has a comfortable seating arrangement. The Taylor Center also has a number of amenities that make it a great place to watch a volleyball game, including a large video scoreboard and a concessions stand.
The Mavericks volleyball team has a strong home court record at the Taylor Center. The Mavericks have won over 80% of their home games at the Taylor Center since it opened in 1990. The Mavericks’ success at home is due in part to the great atmosphere that the Taylor Center provides. The fans at the Taylor Center are passionate and supportive, and they create a great home court advantage for the Mavericks.
The Taylor Center is an important part of the Mankato State University volleyball program. The arena provides the Mavericks with a great home court advantage, and it is a great place to watch a volleyball game.
Key Insights:
- The Taylor Center is a state-of-the-art facility that provides the Mavericks volleyball team with a great home court advantage.
- The Mavericks have a strong home court record at the Taylor Center, winning over 80% of their home games since it opened in 1990.
- The fans at the Taylor Center are passionate and supportive, and they create a great home court advantage for the Mavericks.
Table: Key Features of the Taylor Center
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5,000 |
| Amenities | Large video scoreboard, concessions stand |
| Home Court Advantage | The Mavericks have won over 80% of their home games at the Taylor Center since it opened in 1990. |
7. Rivals
The Mavericks’ biggest rivals are the University of Sioux Falls and Augustana University. These three schools are all located in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), and they have been competing against each other for many years. The rivalry between Mankato State University and the University of Sioux Falls is particularly intense, as the two schools are located just 30 miles apart. The rivalry between Mankato State University and Augustana University is also intense, as the two schools are located in the same city.
- History of the Rivalries: The rivalry between Mankato State University and the University of Sioux Falls dates back to the early 1970s. The two schools have met 52 times on the volleyball court, with Mankato State University holding a 27-25 advantage. The rivalry between Mankato State University and Augustana University dates back to the early 1980s. The two schools have met 48 times on the volleyball court, with Augustana University holding a 26-22 advantage.
- Intensity of the Rivalries: The rivalry between Mankato State University and the University of Sioux Falls is one of the most intense rivalries in the NSIC. The two schools are always competing for the NSIC championship, and the games between the two schools are always close. The rivalry between Mankato State University and Augustana University is also very intense. The two schools are located in the same city, and the games between the two schools are always well-attended.
- Impact of the Rivalries: The rivalry between Mankato State University and the University of Sioux Falls has had a major impact on the volleyball programs at both schools. The two schools have always pushed each other to be better, and they have both been very successful in recent years. The rivalry between Mankato State University and Augustana University has also had a major impact on the volleyball programs at both schools. The two schools have always pushed each other to be better, and they have both been very successful in recent years.
The rivalries between Mankato State University, the University of Sioux Falls, and Augustana University are some of the most intense rivalries in the NSIC. The three schools are always competing for the NSIC championship, and the games between the three schools are always close. These rivalries have had a major impact on the volleyball programs at all three schools, and they have helped to make the NSIC one of the most competitive conferences in Division II volleyball.
8. Mascot
The connection between the mascot and the university is significant. The mascot represents the spirit and values of the university, and it helps to create a sense of community among students, faculty, staff, and alumni. In the case of Mankato State University, the mascot, Maverick the Mustang, is a symbol of strength, speed, and determination. These are all qualities that are important to the university and its volleyball program.
The mascot is also an important part of the university’s marketing and branding efforts. Maverick the Mustang is instantly recognizable, and it helps to create a positive image of the university. The mascot is often used in marketing materials, and it is a popular figure at university events.
The mascot can also help to motivate the volleyball team. When the team is playing at home, Maverick the Mustang is often on the sidelines, cheering on the players. The mascot’s presence can help to create a more exciting and energetic atmosphere, which can be beneficial to the team.
In conclusion, the mascot is an important part of the Mankato State University volleyball program. It represents the spirit and values of the university, and it helps to create a sense of community among students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
9. Colors
The colors of a sports team are an important part of its identity. They are used on the team’s uniforms, logo, and other marketing materials. The colors of the Mankato State University volleyball team are purple and gold. These colors have a long and storied history, and they represent the values of the university and the volleyball program.
- Tradition: Purple and gold have been the colors of Mankato State University since the school was founded in 1867. These colors are a nod to the university’s history and tradition. They are also the colors of the Minnesota Vikings, the state’s NFL team. This connection to the Vikings helps to create a sense of pride and unity among Mankato State University students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
- School Spirit: Purple and gold are instantly recognizable colors. They are used on the university’s uniforms, logo, and other marketing materials. This helps to create a strong sense of school spirit among students, faculty, staff, and alumni. When the volleyball team is playing at home, the Taylor Center is often filled with fans wearing purple and gold. This creates a great atmosphere for the team and helps to motivate the players.
- Marketing: Purple and gold are also important marketing tools for Mankato State University. These colors are used in all of the university’s marketing materials, including its website, brochures, and social media pages. This helps to create a consistent brand identity for the university. Purple and gold are also used to promote the volleyball team. The team’s website, social media pages, and other marketing materials are all branded with the university’s colors.
- Values: Purple and gold are more than just colors. They represent the values of Mankato State University and the volleyball program. Purple is often associated with royalty, nobility, and wisdom. Gold is often associated with wealth, prosperity, and success. These values are all important to Mankato State University and the volleyball program.
The colors of the Mankato State University volleyball team are purple and gold. These colors have a long and storied history, and they represent the values of the university and the volleyball program. Purple and gold are a source of pride for the university and the community. They are also an important marketing tool for the university. The volleyball team’s success on the court has helped to raise the profile of the university and the volleyball program. The team’s success has also helped to increase the visibility of the university’s colors. Purple and gold are now synonymous with Mankato State University and the volleyball program.
10. Fight Song
The fight song of a sports team is an important part of its identity. It is a song that is sung by fans to cheer on the team and show their support. The fight song of the Mankato State University volleyball team is “Fight, Mavericks, Fight.” This song is a rallying cry for the team and its fans. It is a song that is full of energy and passion, and it helps to create a sense of unity among the team and its fans.
The fight song is also an important part of the team’s pre-game ritual. The team sings the fight song before every game, and it helps to get the team pumped up and ready to play. The fight song is also a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation of Mankato State University volleyball players. It is a song that is sung by the team’s alumni, and it is a song that is sung by the team’s fans.
The fight song is more than just a song. It is a symbol of the team’s spirit and tradition. It is a song that represents the values of the team and the university. The fight song is a song that unites the team and its fans. It is a song that is sung with pride and passion.
Key Insights:
- The fight song is an important part of the identity of the Mankato State University volleyball team.
- The fight song is a rallying cry for the team and its fans.
- The fight song is an important part of the team’s pre-game ritual.
- The fight song is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation of Mankato State University volleyball players.
- The fight song is more than just a song. It is a symbol of the team’s spirit and tradition.
11. Notable Players
Mankato State University volleyball has a long and successful history, and the program has produced several notable players over the years. Two of the most recent are Katie Rodriguez and Alyssa Jarosz.
- Katie Rodriguez
Rodriguez was a two-time All-American and the NSIC Player of the Year in 2018. She was a member of the US Junior National Team and helped lead the Mavericks to three NSIC championships and three NCAA Tournament appearances. - Alyssa Jarosz
Jarosz was a two-time All-American and the AVCA Division II National Player of the Year in 2019. She was a member of the US Collegiate National Team and helped lead the Mavericks to two NSIC championships and two NCAA Tournament appearances.
Rodriguez and Jarosz are just two examples of the many notable players who have played for Mankato State University volleyball.
These players have helped to make the Mavericks one of the most successful programs in Division II volleyball. They have also helped to raise the profile of the program and inspire future generations of volleyball players.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mankato State University Volleyball
This section provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Mankato State University volleyball program.
Question 1: What is the history of Mankato State University volleyball?
Answer: The Mavericks have been playing volleyball since 1972 and have won three NSIC championships (2005, 2008, and 2010).
Question 2: What conference does Mankato State University volleyball compete in?
Answer: The Mavericks compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).
Question 3: Who is the head coach of the Mavericks?
Answer: Matt Margraf has been the head coach of the Mavericks since 2005.
Question 4: What is the Mavericks’ record?
Answer: The Mavericks finished with a 26-9 record in 2018.
Question 5: How many NCAA Tournament appearances have the Mavericks made?
Answer: The Mavericks have made 11 NCAA Tournament appearances.
Question 6: What is the Mavericks’ home arena?
Answer: The Mavericks play their home games at the Taylor Center.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about Mankato State University volleyball. For more information, please visit the team’s website.
Summary: Mankato State University volleyball is a successful program with a rich history. The Mavericks are consistently competitive in the NSIC and have made several deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. The team is led by head coach Matt Margraf and plays its home games at the Taylor Center.
Transition: For more information about Mankato State University volleyball, please visit the team’s website or read the rest of this article.
Tips for Success in Mankato State University Volleyball
Mankato State University volleyball is a successful program with a rich history. The Mavericks are consistently competitive in the NSIC and have made several deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. If you’re interested in playing volleyball at Mankato State University, here are a few tips to help you succeed:
Tip 1: Work Hard
Success in volleyball requires hard work and dedication. Be prepared to put in the time to practice and improve your skills.
Tip 2: Be Coachable
Listen to your coaches and be willing to learn from them. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience that can help you improve your game.
Tip 3: Be a Team Player
Volleyball is a team sport. Be willing to work with your teammates and put the team’s success ahead of your own.
Tip 4: Stay Positive
Volleyball can be a challenging sport. There will be times when you make mistakes or lose games. It’s important to stay positive and learn from your mistakes.
Tip 5: Have Fun
Volleyball should be enjoyable. Make sure to have fun and enjoy the experience.
Summary:
Following these tips can help you succeed in Mankato State University volleyball. Remember to work hard, be coachable, be a team player, stay positive, and have fun.
Transition:
For more information about Mankato State University volleyball, please visit the team’s website or read the rest of this article.
Conclusion
Mankato State University volleyball is a successful program with a rich history. The Mavericks are consistently competitive in the NSIC and have made several deep runs in the NCAA Tournament. The team is led by head coach Matt Margraf and plays its home games at the Taylor Center.
The Mavericks have a bright future. The team is young and talented, and they are hungry to succeed. With continued hard work and dedication, the Mavericks can achieve their goals of winning an NSIC championship and making a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
