Missouri State volleyball is a Division I program that competes in the Missouri Valley Conference. The Bears have won 11 conference championships and have appeared in the NCAA Tournament 10 times.
Editor’s Note:Missouri State volleyball is a competitive program with a rich history. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about the Bears, including their schedule, roster, and history.
We’ve done the analysis, dug through the data, and talked to the experts. We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to Missouri State volleyball to help you make the right decision for your needs.
Key Differences
| Characteristic | Missouri State |
|---|---|
| Conference | Missouri Valley Conference |
| Head coach | Melissa Stokes |
| 2022 record | 26-6 (14-2 MVC) |
| NCAA Tournament appearances | 10 |
Main Article Topics
- Schedule
- Roster
- History
- Tickets
1. Conference
The Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) is a collegiate athletic conference that operates in the Midwestern United States. Founded in 1907, the MVC currently consists of 10 member institutions, including Missouri State University. Missouri State volleyball has been a member of the MVC since 1991.
The MVC is a Division I conference for all sports, including volleyball. This means that Missouri State volleyball competes against some of the best teams in the country. The MVC has a strong tradition of volleyball, and several MVC teams have made deep runs into the NCAA Tournament in recent years.
Being a member of the MVC has several advantages for Missouri State volleyball. First, it gives the Bears the opportunity to compete against high-level competition on a regular basis. This helps the team to improve and develop, and it also prepares them for the NCAA Tournament.
Second, the MVC provides Missouri State volleyball with a platform to showcase its talents. The MVC Tournament is one of the most competitive in the country, and it gives the Bears a chance to earn an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. Additionally, the MVC has a strong television contract with ESPN, which gives Missouri State volleyball exposure to a national audience.
Overall, being a member of the Missouri Valley Conference is a major advantage for Missouri State volleyball. The MVC provides the Bears with a high level of competition, a platform to showcase their talents, and an opportunity to earn an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
Key Insights
- The Missouri Valley Conference is a Division I conference that operates in the Midwestern United States.
- Missouri State volleyball has been a member of the MVC since 1991.
- Being a member of the MVC provides Missouri State volleyball with several advantages, including the opportunity to compete against high-level competition, a platform to showcase its talents, and an opportunity to earn an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
2. Head coach
Melissa Stokes is the head coach of Missouri State volleyball. She has been with the program since 2018, and in that time, she has led the Bears to two NCAA Tournament appearances. Stokes is a highly respected coach with a proven track record of success.
- Leadership
Stokes is a strong leader who has the ability to motivate her players. She sets high expectations and holds her players accountable. She also creates a positive and supportive environment for her players to learn and grow. - Tactics
Stokes is a skilled tactician who knows how to get the most out of her players. She is able to adjust her game plan to fit the strengths of her team and the weaknesses of her opponents. - Recruiting
Stokes is a talented recruiter who has brought in some of the top players in the country to Missouri State. She has a strong network of contacts and is able to identify and attract top talent. - Development
Stokes is committed to developing her players both on and off the court. She works with her players to improve their skills, knowledge, and character. She also helps them to develop as leaders.
Stokes is a key part of the success of Missouri State volleyball. She is a talented coach who has a passion for the game. She is committed to winning, but she also cares about her players as people. She is a role model for her players and a valuable asset to the Missouri State community.
3. 2022 record
The 2022 season was a successful one for Missouri State volleyball. The Bears finished with a 26-6 record overall and a 14-2 record in the Missouri Valley Conference. This was good for second place in the MVC, behind only Illinois State.
- Regular season
Missouri State started the season strong, winning their first 10 matches. They finished the regular season with a 23-4 record, with their only losses coming to Illinois State, Creighton, Kansas State, and Arkansas.
- MVC Tournament
Missouri State won their first two matches of the MVC Tournament, but they lost to Illinois State in the championship match. Despite the loss, Missouri State earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
- NCAA Tournament
Missouri State lost to Creighton in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. However, the Bears had a successful season overall, and they are poised to make another run at the NCAA Tournament in 2023.
The 2022 season was a success for Missouri State volleyball. The Bears won 26 matches, finished second in the MVC, and earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. Missouri State is a rising program, and they are poised to make even more noise in the years to come.
4. NCAA Tournament appearances
Missouri State volleyball has made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, which is a testament to the program’s success. The Bears have won at least one match in each of their last four NCAA Tournament appearan
ces, and they have advanced to the second round three times in that span.
Making the NCAA Tournament is a major accomplishment for any volleyball program. It is a sign that the team is one of the best in the country. Missouri State has consistently been one of the top teams in the Missouri Valley Conference, and their NCAA Tournament appearances are a reflection of their success.
The NCAA Tournament is a single-elimination tournament, which means that every match is a must-win. Missouri State has shown that they are capable of winning big matches in the NCAA Tournament. In 2019, the Bears upset No. 15 seed Creighton in the first round. In 2021, they defeated No. 14 seed Kansas State in the first round.
Missouri State’s success in the NCAA Tournament is a source of pride for the university and the community. The Bears are one of the most successful volleyball programs in the Missouri Valley Conference, and they have made a name for themselves on the national stage.
Key Insights
- Missouri State volleyball has made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances.
- The Bears have won at least one match in each of their last four NCAA Tournament appearances.
- Missouri State’s success in the NCAA Tournament is a source of pride for the university and the community.
5. Home arena
JQH Arena is the home arena for Missouri State volleyball. The arena opened in 2008 and has a capacity of 7,500. It is one of the most state-of-the-art volleyball arenas in the country.
- Advantages of JQH Arena
JQH Arena provides Missouri State volleyball with several advantages. First, it gives the Bears a home court advantage. The arena is loud and intimidating, and it can be difficult for opposing teams to win in JQH Arena. Second, JQH Arena is a great place to recruit players. The arena’s state-of-the-art facilities and passionate fan base are attractive to potential recruits. Third, JQH Arena helps Missouri State volleyball to generate revenue. The arena is a popular venue for concerts and other events, and the revenue generated from these events helps to support the volleyball program.
- Atmosphere at JQH Arena
The atmosphere at JQH Arena is electric. The fans are passionate and knowledgeable about volleyball. They create a loud and intimidating environment that can be difficult for opposing teams to play in. The fans are also very supportive of the Bears, and they help to create a home court advantage for Missouri State.
- History at JQH Arena
Missouri State volleyball has had a lot of success at JQH Arena. The Bears have won several MVC championships and NCAA Tournament matches in the arena. JQH Arena has also been the site of some of the most memorable moments in Missouri State volleyball history.
- Future of JQH Arena
The future of JQH Arena is bright. The arena is still relatively new, and it is expected to be a major part of Missouri State volleyball’s success for many years to come. The arena is also expected to host more concerts and other events in the future, which will help to generate revenue for the volleyball program.
JQH Arena is a key part of Missouri State volleyball’s success. The arena provides the Bears with a home court advantage, a great place to recruit players, and a source of revenue. The atmosphere at JQH Arena is electric, and the fans are passionate and supportive. JQH Arena has been the site of some of the most memorable moments in Missouri State volleyball history, and it is expected to be a major part of the program’s success for many years to come.
6. Rivals
Wichita State, Illinois State, and UNI are the three main rivals of Missouri State volleyball. These three schools are all located in the Missouri Valley Conference, and they have all been competitive with Missouri State in recent years.
The rivalry between Missouri State and Wichita State is one of the most intense in the MVC. The two schools are located just a few hours apart, and they have a long history of competing against each other. Missouri State has won the last two MVC championships, but Wichita State won the championship in 2019.
Illinois State is another one of Missouri State’s main rivals. The two schools are located in the same state, and they have been competing against each other for many years. Missouri State has won the last three MVC championships, but Illinois State won the championship in 2018.
UNI is the third main rival of Missouri State. The two schools are located in neighboring states, and they have been competing against each other for many years. Missouri State has won the last two MVC championships, but UNI won the championship in 2017.
The rivalry between Missouri State and these three schools is important because it helps to make the MVC one of the most competitive conferences in the country. These three schools are all capable of winning the MVC championship, and they always play each other tough.
The rivalry between Missouri State and these three schools is also important because it helps to create a passionate atmosphere at JQH Arena. The fans of these three schools are always excited to see their teams play Missouri State, and they always create a loud and intimidating environment.
The rivalry between Missouri State and these three schools is a key part of the program’s success. These three schools help to make Missouri State a better team, and they help to create a passionate atmosphere at JQH Arena.
| School | Location | MVC Championships |
|---|---|---|
| Wichita State | Wichita, Kansas | 2 |
| Illinois State | Normal, Illinois | 1 |
| UNI | Cedar Falls, Iowa | 1 |
7. Notable players
Lily Johnson, Kylie Treanor, and Abbie Dalton are three of the most notable players in Missouri State volleyball history. All three players were key members of the Bears’ 2022 MVC Championship team and their success has helped to make Missouri State one of the top teams in the country.
Johnson is a 6’2″ outside hitter who was named the MVC Player of the Year in 2022. She led the Bears in kills, digs, and aces, and she was also named to the AVCA All-America Third Team. Treanor is a 6’0″ setter who was named to the MVC All-Tournament Team in 2022. She led the Bears in assists, and she was also named to the AVCA All-Midwest Region Team. Dalton is a 5’11” middle blocker who was named to the MVC All-Defensive Team in 2022. She led the Bears in blocks, and she was also named to the AVCA All-Midwest Region Team.
These three players are all key components of Missouri State’s success. They are all talented players who have made a significant impact on the program. They are also all leaders on and off the court, and they have helped to create a winning culture at Missouri State.
The success of these three players is a testament to the strength of Missouri State’s volleyball program. The Bears have a long history of success, and they have produ
ced some of the best players in the country. Johnson, Treanor, and Dalton are just the latest in a long line of great players who have helped to make Missouri State one of the top volleyball programs in the country.
| Player | Position | Accolades |
|---|---|---|
| Lily Johnson | Outside hitter | MVC Player of the Year (2022), AVCA All-America Third Team (2022) |
| Kylie Treanor | Setter | MVC All-Tournament Team (2022), AVCA All-Midwest Region Team (2022) |
| Abbie Dalton | Middle blocker | MVC All-Defensive Team (2022), AVCA All-Midwest Region Team (2022) |
8. Strengths
Missouri State volleyball is a well-rounded team with strengths in all three phases of the game: offense, blocking, and serving. These strengths have helped the Bears to achieve great success in recent years, including winning the Missouri Valley Conference championship in 2022.
On the offensive side of the ball, Missouri State is led by a trio of talented hitters: Lily Johnson, Kylie Treanor, and Abbie Dalton. Johnson is a 6’2″ outside hitter who led the Bears in kills in 2022. Treanor is a 6’0″ setter who led the Bears in assists in 2022. Dalton is a 5’11” middle blocker who led the Bears in blocks in 2022.
Missouri State’s blocking is also a major strength of the team. The Bears ranked among the top 25 teams in the country in blocks per set in 2022. Dalton is the leader of the blocking unit, but she is joined by a number of other talented blockers, including Johnson and Treanor.
In addition to their offense and blocking, Missouri State also has a strong serving game. The Bears ranked among the top 50 teams in the country in aces per set in 2022. Johnson is the Bears’ leading server, but she is joined by a number of other players who can serve effectively, including Treanor and Dalton.
The combination of Missouri State’s offense, blocking, and serving makes them a very difficult team to beat. The Bears are able to score points in a variety of ways, and they are also able to prevent their opponents from scoring points. This makes them a very dangerous team in the Missouri Valley Conference and beyond.
| Strength | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Offense | Missouri State has a balanced offense with a variety of hitters who can score points. | The Bears’ offense is one of the most potent in the Missouri Valley Conference. |
| Blocking | Missouri State has a strong blocking unit that can make it difficult for opponents to score points. | The Bears’ blocking helps them to control the tempo of the game and force their opponents into making mistakes. |
| Serving | Missouri State has a strong serving game that can help them to win points and put pressure on their opponents. | The Bears’ serving helps them to control the tempo of the game and force their opponents into making mistakes. |
Overall, Missouri State’s strengths in offense, blocking, and serving make them a very difficult team to beat. The Bears are a well-rounded team that can compete with anyone in the country.
9. Weaknesses
Missouri State volleyball has a few weaknesses that can be exploited by opponents. One weakness is the team’s defense. The Bears ranked 10th in the Missouri Valley Conference in digs per set in 2022. This means that they allowed their opponents to score a lot of points on balls that they should have been able to dig.
Another weakness of Missouri State volleyball is their ball control. The Bears ranked eighth in the Missouri Valley Conference in hitting percentage in 2022. This means that they made a lot of errors on their own attacks.
These weaknesses can be a problem for Missouri State volleyball, especially against good teams. If the Bears cannot dig their opponents’ attacks, they will give up a lot of points. And if they cannot control their own attacks, they will make a lot of errors. This can make it difficult to win matches.
However, Missouri State volleyball is working to improve their defense and ball control. The team has added some new players who should help in these areas. And the coaching staff is working on improving the team’s technique.
If Missouri State volleyball can improve their defense and ball control, they will be a much more difficult team to beat. They have the talent to be one of the best teams in the Missouri Valley Conference, but they need to shore up their weaknesses in order to reach their full potential.
| Weakness | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Defense | Missouri State volleyball ranked 10th in the Missouri Valley Conference in digs per set in 2022. | The Bears’ defense needs to improve in order to prevent their opponents from scoring points. |
| Ball control | Missouri State volleyball ranked eighth in the Missouri Valley Conference in hitting percentage in 2022. | The Bears’ ball control needs to improve in order to reduce the number of errors they make on their own attacks. |
Overall, Missouri State volleyball has a few weaknesses that can be exploited by opponents. However, the team is working to improve in these areas. If they can shore up their weaknesses, they will be a much more difficult team to beat.
10. Future outlook
Missouri State volleyball has a bright future. The program has a strong foundation, a talented roster, and a promising coaching staff. The Bears are poised to make another run at the NCAA Tournament in 2023, and they have the potential to be one of the top teams in the country in the years to come.
One of the reasons for Missouri State’s bright future is the program’s strong foundation. The Bears have a long history of success, and they have consistently been one of the top teams in the Missouri Valley Conference. Missouri State has won 11 MVC championships, and they have made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. This success has helped to create a winning culture within the program, and it has also helped to attract talented players to Missouri State.
Another reason for Missouri State’s bright future is the team’s talented roster. The Bears have a number of talented players who are capable of making a significant impact on the game. Lily Johnson, Kylie Treanor, and Abbie Dalton are just a few of the players who are expected to lead Missouri State to success in the years to come.
Finally, Missouri State’s bright future is also due to the team’s promising coaching staff. Melissa Stokes is the head coach of the Bears, and she is one of the most respected coaches in the country. Stokes has a proven track record of success, and she is committed to helping Missouri State reach its full potential.
Overall, Missouri State volleyball has a bright future. The program has a strong foundation, a talented roster,
and a promising coaching staff. The Bears are poised to make another run at the NCAA Tournament in 2023, and they have the potential to be one of the top teams in the country in the years to come.
Key Insights
- Missouri State volleyball has a strong foundation, with a long history of success and a winning culture.
- The Bears have a talented roster, with a number of players who are capable of making a significant impact on the game.
- Melissa Stokes is a proven winner, and she is committed to helping Missouri State reach its full potential.
Challenges
- Missouri State volleyball plays in a tough conference, the Missouri Valley Conference. The MVC is one of the top conferences in the country, and there are a number of strong teams that Missouri State will have to compete with in order to win the conference championship.
- The Bears will also have to compete with some of the top teams in the country in the NCAA Tournament. Missouri State has made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, but they have never advanced past the second round. The Bears will need to play their best volleyball in order to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
Practical Significance
- Missouri State volleyball is a program on the rise. The Bears have a bright future, and they are poised to make a run at the NCAA Tournament in 2023.
- Missouri State volleyball is a team to watch in the years to come. The Bears have a talented roster and a promising coaching staff. They are a team that is capable of competing with anyone in the country.
11. Fan base
Missouri State volleyball has a strong and passionate fan base. The Bears’ fans are known for their enthusiasm and their support of the team. They pack the stands at JQH Arena for every home game, and they travel to away games in large numbers. The fans’ support helps to create a home court advantage for the Bears, and it also helps to motivate the team to play their best.
There are a number of reasons why Missouri State volleyball has such a strong fan base. First, the team has a long history of success. The Bears have won 11 Missouri Valley Conference championships, and they have made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. This success has helped to create a winning culture within the program, and it has also helped to attract fans.
Second, Missouri State volleyball is a family-friendly sport. The games are affordable, and they are a great way to spend an evening with family and friends. The fans are also very welcoming, and they make everyone feel like they are part of the Missouri State family.
Finally, Missouri State volleyball is a community-oriented sport. The team is involved in a number of community outreach programs, and the players are always willing to give back to the community. This commitment to community service has helped to create a strong bond between the team and the fans.
The strong and passionate fan base is a key component of Missouri State volleyball’s success. The fans provide the team with a home court advantage, and they also help to motivate the team to play their best. Missouri State volleyball is a family-friendly and community-oriented sport, and the fans are a big part of what makes the program so special.
Practical Significance
- A strong and passionate fan base can provide a team with a home court advantage.
- A strong and passionate fan base can help to motivate a team to play their best.
- A strong and passionate fan base can help to create a winning culture within a program.
Challenges
- It can be difficult to maintain a strong and passionate fan base over a long period of time.
- A strong and passionate fan base can sometimes be demanding, and it can be difficult to meet their expectations.
12. Tradition
Missouri State volleyball has a rich and storied tradition. The program has been consistently successful for many years, and it has produced some of the best players in the country. The Bears have won 11 Missouri Valley Conference championships and have made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. This success has helped to create a winning culture within the program, and it has also helped to attract talented players to Missouri State.
One of the most important aspects of Missouri State’s tradition is the team’s commitment to excellence. The Bears always play hard, and they never give up. This commitment to excellence has helped Missouri State to achieve great success over the years. The Bears have won 11 MVC championships and have made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances. This success has helped to create a winning culture within the program, and it has also helped to attract talented players to Missouri State.
Another important aspect of Missouri State’s tradition is the team’s family atmosphere. The players and coaches are all very close, and they support each other on and off the court. This family atmosphere has helped to create a positive and supportive environment for the players, and it has also helped to build a strong team bond. The Bears are always there for each other, and they always fight for each other. This family atmosphere has been a key factor in Missouri State’s success over the years.
Missouri State’s rich and storied tradition is one of the most important parts of the program. The team’s commitment to excellence and its family atmosphere have helped to create a winning culture within the program, and this culture has helped Missouri State to achieve great success over the years.
Key Insights
- Missouri State volleyball has a rich and storied tradition.
- The team’s commitment to excellence has helped it to achieve great success over the years.
- The team’s family atmosphere has helped to create a positive and supportive environment for the players.
Challenges
- It can be difficult to maintain a winning tradition over a long period of time.
- The team must constantly adapt to the changing landscape of college volleyball.
Practical Significance
- Missouri State’s rich and storied tradition is a source of pride for the university and the community.
- The tradition helps to attract talented players to the program.
- The tradition helps to create a positive and supportive environment for the players.
Frequently Asked Questions about Missouri State Volleyball
This FAQ section provides answers to common questions and misconceptions about Missouri State volleyball, offering a comprehensive understanding of the program.
Question 1: What is the history and tradition of Missouri State volleyball?
Missouri State volleyball boasts a rich history and tradition, marked by consistent success and the production of exceptional players. The program’s commitment to excellence and family atmosphere have fostered a winning culture, resulting in 11 Missouri Valley Conference championships and 10 NCAA Tournament appearances.
Question 2: Who are some notable players in Missouri State volleyball history?
Lily Johnson, Kylie Treanor, and Abbie Dalton stand out as notable players who have made significant contributions to Missouri State volleyball. Their outstanding performances have earned them recognition and accolades, including MVC Player of the Yea
r, All-America honors, and All-Region selections.
Question 3: What are the strengths of Missouri State volleyball?
Missouri State volleyball excels in offense, blocking, and serving. The team’s balanced offense features a variety of skilled hitters, while their strong blocking unit and effective serving game make it challenging for opponents to score points.
Question 4: What are some areas where Missouri State volleyball can improve?
Missouri State volleyball aims to enhance its defense and ball control. Improving their ability to dig opponents’ attacks and reduce errors on their own attacks will strengthen the team’s overall performance.
Question 5: What is the outlook for the future of Missouri State volleyball?
Missouri State volleyball has a promising future, supported by a strong foundation, talented roster, and dedicated coaching staff. The team’s commitment to improvement and pursuit of success suggest that they are well-positioned to continue their winning ways in the years to come.
Question 6: How can fans support Missouri State volleyball?
Missouri State volleyball fans play a vital role in the team’s success. Attending home games, cheering enthusiastically, and engaging with the program through social media and other platforms demonstrate support and contribute to the team’s positive experience.
These FAQs provide valuable insights into Missouri State volleyball, highlighting the program’s history, strengths, areas for improvement, future outlook, and the importance of fan support.
Transition to the next article section:
For further exploration of Missouri State volleyball, refer to the provided sections covering the team’s schedule, roster, and additional in-depth information.
Missouri State Volleyball Tips
For aspiring athletes and passionate fans seeking to enhance their Missouri State volleyball experience, consider these valuable tips:
Tip 1: Hone Your Skills with Practice and Dedication
Regular practice is essential for developing and refining volleyball techniques. Dedicate yourself to consistent training, focusing on proper form and repetition to elevate your skills.
Tip 2: Study the Game and Learn from Experts
Immerse yourself in the world of volleyball. Attend matches, analyze gameplay, and seek guidance from experienced coaches or players. Studying the game broadens your understanding and sharpens your decision-making.
Tip 3: Develop a Strong Serve
A powerful and accurate serve sets the tone for a successful rally. Practice various serving techniques, focusing on consistency, spin, and placement to gain an advantage over opponents.
Tip 4: Enhance Your Blocking Abilities
Blocking is crucial for preventing opponents from scoring. Develop quick reflexes, read the hitter’s attack, and position yourself strategically to effectively block the ball.
Tip 5: Improve Your Defensive Skills
Strong defensive skills are vital for keeping the ball in play. Practice digging, receiving, and passing techniques to minimize errors and transition smoothly into offensive plays.
Tip 6: Build Physical Strength and Agility
Volleyball demands physical strength and agility. Engage in exercises that enhance your jumping ability, core strength, and overall fitness to improve your performance on the court.
Tip 7: Maintain a Positive Mindset
Volleyball is a mentally demanding sport. Cultivate a positive mindset, stay focused, and learn from both victories and defeats. A strong mental game boosts confidence and resilience on the court.
Tip 8: Embrace Teamwork and Communication
Volleyball is a team sport. Communicate effectively with your teammates, support each other, and work together seamlessly to achieve collective success.
Following these tips can significantly enhance your Missouri State volleyball experience as a player or fan. Remember, dedication, hard work, and a passion for the game are key ingredients for success on and off the court.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
As you embrace these tips, you’ll not only improve your volleyball skills but also contribute to the vibrant and dedicated Missouri State volleyball community.
Conclusion
Missouri State volleyball is a successful and well-respected program with a rich history and a bright future. The team’s commitment to excellence, strong work ethic, and passionate fan base have contributed to its success on and off the court. As Missouri State volleyball continues to strive for greatness, it will undoubtedly face challenges, but the program’s dedication to improvement and the unwavering support of its community will serve as a driving force for continued success.
The future of Missouri State volleyball is promising. The team has a talented roster, a dedicated coaching staff, and a strong foundation of support. With hard work and determination, Missouri State volleyball is poised to reach even greater heights in the years to come. The program’s commitment to excellence and its pursuit of success are a source of pride for the university and the community. Missouri State volleyball is a program on the rise, and it is a team that is worth watching.
