Mankato State volleyball is a Division II intercollegiate athletics program that competes in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Mavericks are led by head coach Matt Sonnichsen, who is in his 12th season at the helm of the program.
Editor’s Notes:Mankato State volleyball is a perennial contender in the NSIC, having won the conference championship six times in the past 10 years. The Mavericks have also made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances during that span, including a trip to the national quarterfinals in 2016.
After doing some analysis and digging around, we’ve put together this Mankato State volleyball guide to help you make the right decision.
Key differences or Key takeways:
| Mankato State volleyball | |
|---|---|
| Conference | Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) |
| Head coach | Matt Sonnichsen |
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 10 |
| NSIC Championships | 6 |
Main article topics:
- History of Mankato State volleyball
- Mankato State volleyball’s success
- Mankato State volleyball’s future
1. Conference
The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) is a NCAA Division II athletic conference that was formed in 1992. The NSIC is made up of 16 member schools, located in the Upper Midwest region of the United States. Mankato State University is a charter member of the NSIC.
Mankato State volleyball has been a member of the NSIC since its inception. The Mavericks have been one of the most successful teams in the conference, winning six NSIC championships and making 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. The NSIC is a very competitive conference, and Mankato State volleyball has had to compete against some of the best teams in the country. However, the Mavericks have consistently been able to compete at a high level and have been one of the top teams in the NSIC year after year.
Being a member of the NSIC has helped Mankato State volleyball to achieve success. The conference provides a high level of competition, which has helped the Mavericks to improve their skills and become a better team. The NSIC also provides a platform for the Mavericks to showcase their talents and compete for a national championship.
| Mankato State volleyball | |
|---|---|
| Conference | Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) |
| NSIC Championships | 6 |
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 10 |
Overall, the connection between the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) and Mankato State volleyball is a positive one. The NSIC has helped Mankato State volleyball to achieve success, and the Mavericks have been a valuable member of the conference.
2. Head coach
Matt Sonnichsen is in his 12th season as head coach of the Mankato State volleyball program. He has led the Mavericks to six NSIC championships and three NCAA Tournament appearances, including a trip to the national quarterfinals in 2016.
Sonnichsen has been a key part of the Mavericks’ success. He is a two-time NSIC Coach of the Year, and he has been named the AVCA Division II National Coach of the Year once.
Sonnichsen’s success is due in part to his ability to recruit top talent. He has brought in several players who have gone on to earn All-American and All-NSIC honors. Sonnichsen is also a great tactician, and he knows how to get the most out of his players.
The connection between Sonnichsen and Mankato State volleyball is a strong one. He has been a key part of the program’s success, and he has helped the Mavericks become one of the top teams in Division II.
| Matt Sonnichsen | |
|---|---|
| Years at Mankato State | 12 |
| NSIC Championships | 6 |
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 3 |
| AVCA Division II National Coach of the Year | 1 |
Overall, the connection between “Head coach: Matt Sonnichsen” and “mankato state volleyball” is a positive one. Sonnichsen has been a key part of the program’s success, and he has helped the Mavericks become one of the top teams in Division II.
3. NCAA Tournament appearances
Mankato State volleyball has made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, which is a testament to the program’s success. The Mavericks have won six NSIC championships and have been ranked as high as No. 2 in the nation. Mankato State has also produced several All-Americans and Academic All-Americans.
The NCAA Tournament is the most prestigious tournament in Division II volleyball. It is a single-elimination tournament that features the top teams in the country. Mankato State has been able to compete with the best teams in the country and has made a deep run in the tournament on several occasions.
The NCAA Tournament is a great opportunity for Mankato State to showcase its talents and compete for a national championship. The Mavericks have been able to use their success in the tournament to attract top recruits and build a strong program.
Overall, the connection between “NCAA Tournament appearances: 10” and “mankato state volleyball” is a positive one. The Mavericks’ success in the NCAA Tournament has helped to raise the profile of the program and attract top recruits. Mankato State is a perennial contender for the national championship, and the NCAA Tournament is a great opportunity for the Mavericks to showcase their talents and compete for a title.
| Mankato State volleyball | |
|---|---|
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 10 |
| NSIC Championships | 6 |
| All-Americans | 12 |
| Academic All-Americans | 15 |
4. NSIC Championships
Mankato State volleyball has won six NSIC Championships, which is a testament to the program’s success. The Mavericks ha
ve been a dominant force in the NSIC, consistently competing for the conference title.
- Conference dominance: Mankato State has won six of the last 10 NSIC Championships, demonstrating their consistent success and dominance in the conference.
- National recognition: The Mavericks’ success in the NSIC has helped them gain national recognition. They have been ranked as high as No. 2 in the nation and have made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances.
- RecruitingMankato State’s success in the NSIC has helped them attract top recruits. The Mavericks have a strong tradition of success, which makes them an attractive destination for talented players.
- Community support: The Mavericks’ success has helped to generate excitement and support for the program in the Mankato community. The team has a strong fan base that regularly attends games and supports the team.
Overall, the connection between “NSIC Championships: 6” and “mankato state volleyball” is a positive one. The Mavericks’ success in the NSIC has helped them to become one of the top teams in Division II volleyball. They have gained national recognition, attracted top recruits, and generated excitement and support in the Mankato community.
5. All-Americans
The connection between “All-Americans: 12” and “mankato state volleyball” is a significant one. All-Americans are players who have been recognized for their outstanding performance at the Division II level. Mankato State volleyball has had 12 players earn All-American honors, which is a testament to the program’s success.
There are several reasons why All-Americans are important to Mankato State volleyball. First, All-Americans are typically the best players on their team. They are the players who make the biggest impact on the court and help their team win games. Second, All-Americans are role models for younger players. They show what is possible if you work hard and dedicate yourself to the sport. Third, All-Americans help to raise the profile of Mankato State volleyball. They attract attention to the program and help to make it one of the top teams in the country.
Here are some examples of how All-Americans have helped Mankato State volleyball achieve success:
- In 2016, middle blocker Taylor Morgan was named an AVCA Division II First Team All-American. She led the Mavericks to the NSIC championship and the NCAA quarterfinals.
- In 2017, outside hitter Sydney Schlobohm was named an AVCA Division II Honorable Mention All-American. She led the Mavericks to another NSIC championship and the NCAA Tournament.
- In 2018, setter Allison Hinnenkamp was named an AVCA Division II Honorable Mention All-American. She led the Mavericks to their third straight NSIC championship and the NCAA Tournament.
These are just a few examples of how All-Americans have helped Mankato State volleyball achieve success. The Mavericks have a long history of producing All-Americans, and they are a key part of the program’s success.
The following table provides a detailed overview of the connection between “All-Americans: 12” and “mankato state volleyball”:
| Mankato State volleyball | |
|---|---|
| All-Americans | 12 |
| NSIC Championships | 6 |
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 10 |
Overall, the connection between “All-Americans: 12” and “mankato state volleyball” is a positive one. All-Americans are key contributors to the Mavericks’ success, and they help to raise the profile of the program. Mankato State is fortunate to have had so many All-Americans over the years, and they are a big reason why the Mavericks are one of the top teams in Division II volleyball.
6. Academic All-Americans
The connection between “Academic All-Americans: 15” and “mankato state volleyball” is a significant one. Academic All-Americans are student-athletes who have excelled both in the classroom and on the court. Mankato State volleyball has had 15 players earn Academic All-American honors, which is a testament to the program’s commitment to academic excellence.
There are several reasons why Academic All-Americans are important to Mankato State volleyball. First, Academic All-Americans are role models for younger players. They show that it is possible to be successful in both athletics and academics. Second, Academic All-Americans help to raise the profile of Mankato State volleyball. They attract attention to the program and help to make it one of the top teams in the country. Third, Academic All-Americans help to create a positive learning environment within the team. They are typically hard-working and dedicated students, and they set a good example for their teammates.
Here are some examples of how Academic All-Americans have helped Mankato State volleyball achieve success:
- In 2016, middle blocker Taylor Morgan was named an AVCA Division II First Team Academic All-American. She led the Mavericks to the NSIC championship and the NCAA quarterfinals. She also graduated with a 3.9 GPA in exercise science.
- In 2017, outside hitter Sydney Schlobohm was named an AVCA Division II Honorable Mention Academic All-American. She led the Mavericks to another NSIC championship and the NCAA Tournament. She also graduated with a 3.8 GPA in marketing.
- In 2018, setter Allison Hinnenkamp was named an AVCA Division II Honorable Mention Academic All-American. She led the Mavericks to their third straight NSIC championship and the NCAA Tournament. She also graduated with a 3.7 GPA in elementary education.
These are just a few examples of how Academic All-Americans have helped Mankato State volleyball achieve success. The Mavericks have a long history of producing Academic All-Americans, and they are a key part of the program’s success.
The following table provides a detailed overview of the connection between “Academic All-Americans: 15” and “mankato state volleyball”:
| Mankato State volleyball | |
|---|---|
| Academic All-Americans | 15 |
| NSIC Championships | 6 |
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 10 |
Overall, the connection between “Academic All-Americans: 15” and “mankato state volleyball” is a positive one. Academic All-Americans are key contributors to the Mavericks’ success, both on and off the court. They help to raise the profile of the program, create a positive learning environment, and inspire younger players to achieve their goals.
7. All-NSIC selections
The connection between “All-NSIC selections: 50+” and “mankato state volleyball” is a significant one. All-NSIC selections are players who have been recognized for their outstanding performance in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). Mankato State volleyball has had over 50 players earn All-NSIC honors, which is a testament to the program’s success.
There are se
veral reasons why All-NSIC selections are important to Mankato State volleyball. First, All-NSIC selections are typically the best players on their team. They are the players who make the biggest impact on the court and help their team win games. Second, All-NSIC selections are role models for younger players. They show what is possible if you work hard and dedicate yourself to the sport. Third, All-NSIC selections help to raise the profile of Mankato State volleyball. They attract attention to the program and help to make it one of the top teams in the country.
Here are some examples of how All-NSIC selections have helped Mankato State volleyball achieve success:
- In 2016, middle blocker Taylor Morgan was named the NSIC Player of the Year. She led the Mavericks to the NSIC championship and the NCAA quarterfinals.
- In 2017, outside hitter Sydney Schlobohm was named an All-NSIC First Team selection. She led the Mavericks to another NSIC championship and the NCAA Tournament.
- In 2018, setter Allison Hinnenkamp was named an All-NSIC Second Team selection. She led the Mavericks to their third straight NSIC championship and the NCAA Tournament.
These are just a few examples of how All-NSIC selections have helped Mankato State volleyball achieve success. The Mavericks have a long history of producing All-NSIC selections, and they are a key part of the program’s success.
The following table provides a detailed overview of the connection between “All-NSIC selections: 50+” and “mankato state volleyball”:
| Mankato State volleyball | |
|---|---|
| All-NSIC selections | 50+ |
| NSIC Championships | 6 |
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 10 |
Overall, the connection between “All-NSIC selections: 50+” and “mankato state volleyball” is a positive one. All-NSIC selections are key contributors to the Mavericks’ success, and they help to raise the profile of the program. Mankato State is fortunate to have had so many All-NSIC selections over the years, and they are a big reason why the Mavericks are one of the top teams in Division II volleyball.
8. NSIC Players of the Year
The connection between “NSIC Players of the Year: 3” and “mankato state volleyball” is a significant one. NSIC Players of the Year are the best players in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), and Mankato State volleyball has had three players earn this prestigious honor.
There are several reasons why NSIC Players of the Year are important to Mankato State volleyball. First, NSIC Players of the Year are typically the best players on their team. They are the players who make the biggest impact on the court and help their team win games. Second, NSIC Players of the Year are role models for younger players. They show what is possible if you work hard and dedicate yourself to the sport. Third, NSIC Players of the Year help to raise the profile of Mankato State volleyball. They attract attention to the program and help to make it one of the top teams in the country.
Here are some examples of how NSIC Players of the Year have helped Mankato State volleyball achieve success:
- In 2016, middle blocker Taylor Morgan was named the NSIC Player of the Year. She led the Mavericks to the NSIC championship and the NCAA quarterfinals.
- In 2018, setter Allison Hinnenkamp was named the NSIC Player of the Year. She led the Mavericks to their third straight NSIC championship and the NCAA Tournament.
- In 2021, outside hitter Ellie Van Grinsven was named the NSIC Player of the Year. She led the Mavericks to their fourth NSIC championship in six years and the NCAA Tournament.
These are just a few examples of how NSIC Players of the Year have helped Mankato State volleyball achieve success. The Mavericks have a long history of producing NSIC Players of the Year, and they are a key part of the program’s success.
The following table provides a detailed overview of the connection between “NSIC Players of the Year: 3” and “mankato state volleyball”:
| Mankato State volleyball | |
|---|---|
| NSIC Players of the Year | 3 |
| NSIC Championships | 6 |
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 10 |
Overall, the connection between “NSIC Players of the Year: 3” and “mankato state volleyball” is a positive one. NSIC Players of the Year are key contributors to the Mavericks’ success, both on and off the court. They help to raise the profile of the program, inspire younger players, and lead the team to victory.
FAQs about Mankato State volleyball
This section provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Mankato State volleyball. These questions are designed to help you better understand the program’s history, success, and future.
Question 1: What is the history of Mankato State volleyball?
Answer: Mankato State volleyball was founded in 1972. The program has a long history of success, winning six NSIC championships and making 10 NCAA Tournament appearances.
Question 2: Who is the head coach of Mankato State volleyball?
Answer: Matt Sonnichsen is the head coach of Mankato State volleyball. He is in his 12th season at the helm of the program.
Question 3: What are the strengths of Mankato State volleyball?
Answer: Mankato State volleyball is known for its strong defense and efficient offense. The Mavericks also have a deep and talented roster.
Question 4: What are the goals of Mankato State volleyball?
Answer: The goals of Mankato State volleyball are to win the NSIC championship and compete for a national championship.
Question 5: What is the future of Mankato State volleyball?
Answer: Mankato State volleyball has a bright future. The program has a strong foundation and a talented coaching staff. The Mavericks are poised to continue their success in the years to come.
Question 6: How can I follow Mankato State volleyball?
Answer: You can follow Mankato State volleyball on social media or visit the team’s website. The Mavericks also have a mobile app that you can download to stay up-to-date on all the latest news and scores.
Summary of key takeaways or final thought: Mankato State volleyball is a successful program with a bright future. The Mavericks are led by a strong coaching staff and have a talented roster. Mankato State is poised to continue their success in the years to come.
Transition to the next article section: Learn more about Mankato State volleyball’s history, success, and future by reading the following articles.
Volleyball tips from Mankato State
The Mankato State volleyball team is one of the most successful programs in Division II. The Mavericks have won six NSIC championships and made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. Head coach Matt Sonnichsen has been at the helm of the program for 12 seasons and has led the Mavericks to six NSIC championships and three NCAA Tournament appearances.
Here are some volleyball tips from Mankato State:
Tip 1:
Pass with your platform
When you pass the ball, make sure to use your platform. This means holding your hands together and in front of your body, with your elbows slightly bent. Your platform should be slightly angled towards the ground. When the ball comes to you, step into the pass and use your legs to generate power. Swing your arms up and forward, and make contact with the ball with your platform.
Tip 2: Set with your fingers
When you set the ball, make sure to use your fingers. This means placing your fingers behind the ball and using your thumbs to support it. Your fingers should be spread apart and pointing up. When you set the ball, push your hands forward and up, and release the ball at the highest point of your reach.
Tip 3: Attack with power
When you attack the ball, make sure to use your power. This means swinging your arm back and then forward, and making contact with the ball with your fist. Your swing should be fluid and powerful. Aim to hit the ball over the net and into the court.
Tip 4: Block with your hands
When you block the ball, make sure to use your hands. This means putting your hands together and in front of your body, with your elbows slightly bent. Your hands should be slightly angled towards the ground. When the ball comes to you, step into the block and use your legs to generate power. Swing your arms up and forward, and make contact with the ball with your hands.
Tip 5: Dig with your forearms
When you dig the ball, make sure to use your forearms. This means holding your arms together and in front of your body, with your elbows slightly bent. Your forearms should be parallel to the ground. When the ball comes to you, step into the dig and use your legs to generate power. Swing your arms down and forward, and make contact with the ball with your forearms.
These are just a few volleyball tips from Mankato State. By following these tips, you can improve your game and become a better volleyball player.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- Passing with your platform will help you to control the ball and make accurate passes.
- Setting with your fingers will help you to set the ball to your hitters in a way that gives them the best chance to attack.
- Attacking with power will help you to score points and put pressure on your opponents.
- Blocking with your hands will help you to stop your opponents from scoring points.
- Digging with your forearms will help you to keep the ball in play and give your team a chance to set up an attack.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
By following these tips, you can improve your volleyball game and become a better player. So what are you waiting for? Start practicing today!
Conclusion
Mankato State volleyball is a successful program with a bright future. The Mavericks have a strong coaching staff, a talented roster, and a passionate fan base. Mankato State is poised to continue their success in the years to come.
Volleyball is a great sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. If you are interested in learning more about volleyball, or if you are looking for ways to improve your game, I encourage you to check out the resources available from Mankato State volleyball.
