What is Oklahoma State Volleyball? Oklahoma State Volleyball is the varsity volleyball team that represents Oklahoma State University in NCAA Division I volleyball. The team competes in the Big 12 Conference. The Cowgirls have won five Big 12 championships (1996, 2003, 2004, 2009, and 2010) and have appeared in 20 NCAA tournaments, including five Final Four appearances (1994, 2003, 2005, 2010, and 2011).
Editor’s Note: Oklahoma State Volleyball is one of the most successful programs in the Big 12 Conference. The Cowgirls have won five conference championships and have appeared in 20 NCAA tournaments. They are a perennial contender for the national championship.
We put together this Oklahoma State Volleyball guide to help you learn more about the program, its history, and its players. We’ll also provide you with information on how to watch Oklahoma State Volleyball games and how to get tickets to see them in person.
Key Differences or Key Takeaways
| Feature | Oklahoma State Volleyball | |—|—| | Conference | Big 12 Conference | | Head Coach | Jennifer Abernathy | | Home Arena | Gallagher-Iba Arena | | NCAA Tournament Appearances | 20 | | National Championships | 0 |
Main Article Topics
History of Oklahoma State Volleyball Oklahoma State Volleyball Players Oklahoma State Volleyball Coaches Oklahoma State Volleyball Schedule How to Watch Oklahoma State Volleyball Games How to Get Tickets to Oklahoma State Volleyball Games
1. History
This rich history is a key part of what makes Oklahoma State Volleyball such a successful program. The Cowgirls have a tradition of winning, and they are always a contender for the Big 12 championship and the NCAA tournament. Their success is a source of pride for the Oklahoma State University community, and it is a major reason why the Cowgirls have such a passionate fan base.
- Winning Tradition: Oklahoma State Volleyball has a winning tradition that dates back to the early 1970s. The Cowgirls have won five Big 12 championships and have appeared in 20 NCAA tournaments. This success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches, and it is a major reason why Oklahoma State Volleyball is one of the most respected programs in the country.
- National Recognition: Oklahoma State Volleyball is a nationally recognized program. The Cowgirls have been ranked in the top 25 for most of the past decade, and they have made several deep runs in the NCAA tournament. This national recognition is a testament to the quality of the program, and it is a major source of pride for the Oklahoma State University community.
- Fan Support: Oklahoma State Volleyball has a passionate fan base. The Cowgirls’ fans are known for their enthusiasm and support, and they create a great atmosphere at home games. This fan support is a major asset for the Cowgirls, and it is a key reason why they are so successful.
The history of Oklahoma State Volleyball is a story of success and tradition. The Cowgirls are one of the most successful programs in the country, and they have a passionate fan base. The history of the program is a major part of what makes Oklahoma State Volleyball so special, and it is a key reason why the Cowgirls are one of the most respected programs in the country.
2. Players
The connection between players and the success of Oklahoma State Volleyball is undeniable. Talented players are the foundation of any successful volleyball program, and Oklahoma State has a long history of producing some of the best players in the country.
One of the most notable players in Oklahoma State Volleyball history is Alisha Glass. Glass was a two-time All-American and helped lead the Cowgirls to the 2011 NCAA championship game. She is now a member of the US National Team.
Other notable players in Oklahoma State Volleyball history include:
- Tarah Murrey
- Courtney Dike
- Julia Brown
- Katelyn Evans
These players have all helped Oklahoma State Volleyball achieve success on the court. They are role models for young athletes and have helped to promote the sport of volleyball.
The success of Oklahoma State Volleyball is a direct result of the talented players who have played for the program. These players have helped to build a winning tradition and have made Oklahoma State one of the top volleyball programs in the country.
3. Tarah Murrey
Tarah Murrey is a former volleyball player who played for Oklahoma State University from 2009 to 2012. She was a two-time All-American and helped lead the Cowgirls to the 2011 NCAA championship game. Murrey is one of the most decorated players in Oklahoma State Volleyball history, and she played a key role in the Cowgirls’ success during her time in Stillwater.
Murrey was a dynamic outside hitter who was known for her powerful serve and her ability to score points in bunches. She was also a strong blocker and defender. Murrey’s all-around game made her one of the most complete players in the country, and she was a major force for the Cowgirls.
In her four seasons at Oklahoma State, Murrey helped the Cowgirls win three Big 12 championships and reach the NCAA tournament four times. She was named an All-American in 2011 and 2012, and she was also named the Big 12 Player of the Year in 2012. Murrey’s individual success was a major factor in the Cowgirls’ success during her time in Stillwater.
After graduating from Oklahoma State, Murrey played professionally in Europe for several years. She is now retired from volleyball and works as a coach and mentor for young athletes.
Tarah Murrey is one of the most successful volleyball players in Oklahoma State history. She was a key member of the Cowgirls’ success during her time in Stillwater, and she helped to build a winning tradition for the program. Murrey is a role model for young athletes, and she is a reminder of the success that can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
Key Insights
- Tarah Murrey was one of the most decorated players in Oklahoma State Volleyball history.
- She played a key role in the Cowgirls’ success during her time in Stillwater.
- Murrey is a role model for young athletes.
4. Courtney Dike
Courtney Dike is a former volleyball player who played for Oklahoma State University from 2013 to 2016. She was a two-time All-American and helped lead the Cowgirls to the 2015 NCAA championship game. Dike is one of the most decorated players in Oklahoma State Volleyball history, and she played a key role in the Cowgirls’ success during her time in Stillwater.
- Leadership
Dike was a natural leader on and off the court. She was a vocal leader who was always willing to encourage her teammates and help them reach their potential. Dike’s leadership was a major factor in the Cowgirls’ success during her time in Stillwater.
- Athleticism
Dike was an exceptional athlete who possessed a rare combination of size, strength, and speed. She was a dominant force at the net, and she was also a very good passer and defender. Dike’s athleticism made her one of the most complete players in the country.
- Versatility
Dike was a versatile player who could play multiple positions. She started her career at Oklahoma State as a middle blocker, but she eventually moved to outside hitter. Dike’s versatility was a major asset for the Cowgirls, and it allowed them to be more flexible in their lineup.
- Clutch Performer
Dike was a clutch performer who always seemed to come up big in the biggest moments. She was a go-to player for the Cowgirls in close games, and she always seemed to find a way to make a play when her team needed it most.
Courtney Dike is one of the most successful volleyball players in Oklahoma State history. She was a key member of the Cowgirls’ success during her time in Stillwater, and she helped to build a winning tradition for the program. Dike is a role model for young athletes, and she is a reminder of the success that can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
5. Coaches
The connection between coaches and the success of Oklahoma State Volleyball is undeniable. Great coaches are able to motivate their players, develop their skills, and create a winning culture. Oklahoma State has been fortunate to have some of the best coaches in the country, and this has been a major factor in the program’s success.
- Leadership
Great coaches are leaders. They are able to motivate their players and create a positive team culture. Oklahoma State’s coaches have a proven track record of developing leaders on and off the court.
- Technical Expertise
Great coaches have a deep understanding of the game of volleyball. They are able to teach their players the fundamentals of the game and help them develop their skills. Oklahoma State’s coaches are some of the most knowledgeable in the country, and this has helped the Cowgirls become one of the top teams in the nation.
- Recruiting
Great coaches are able to recruit top talent. Oklahoma State’s coaches have a knack for finding and developing talented players. This has been a major factor in the Cowgirls’ success over the years.
- Game Management
Great coaches are able to manage the game effectively. They make good decisions about substitutions, timeouts, and tactics. Oklahoma State’s coaches have a proven track record of making the right decisions in big games.
The coaches of Oklahoma State Volleyball have played a major role in the program’s success. They have developed a winning culture, recruited top talent, and prepared the Cowgirls to compete at the highest level. Oklahoma State is fortunate to have some of the best coaches in the country, and this has been a major factor in the program’s success.
6. Schedule
The Oklahoma State Volleyball schedule is a key part of the program’s success. The Cowgirls play a challenging schedule that prepares them for the postseason. The schedule includes matches against some of the top teams in the country, which helps the Cowgirls improve their skills and ranking.
- Preparation for the Postseason
The Oklahoma State Volleyball schedule is designed to prepare the Cowgirls for the postseason. The Cowgirls play a challenging schedule that includes matches against some of the top teams in the country. This helps the Cowgirls improve their skills and ranking, which gives them a better chance of success in the NCAA Tournament.
- Strength of Schedule
The Oklahoma State Volleyball schedule is one of the toughest in the country. The Cowgirls play a challenging schedule that includes matches against some of the top teams in the country. This helps the Cowgirls improve their skills and ranking, which makes them a more attractive opponent for recruits and fans.
- National Recognition
The Oklahoma State Volleyball schedule helps the Cowgirls gain national recognition. The Cowgirls play a challenging schedule that includes matches against some of the top teams in the country. This helps the Cowgirls improve their skills and ranking, which makes them a more attractive opponent for recruits and fans.
- Recruiting
The Oklahoma State Volleyball schedule helps the Cowgirls recruit top talent. The Cowgirls play a challenging schedule that includes matches against some of the top teams in the country. This helps the Cowgirls improve their skills and ranking, which makes them a more attractive opponent for recruits and fans.
The Oklahoma State Volleyball schedule is a key part of the program’s success. The Cowgirls play a challenging schedule that prepares them for the postseason, helps them improve their skills and ranking, and helps them recruit top talent. The schedule is a major factor in the Cowgirls’ success, and it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff.
7. Tickets
The availability of tickets is a crucial aspect for sports enthusiasts and fans to attend live events. In the context of Oklahoma State Volleyball, the ease of purchasing tickets through online platforms and the physical box office provides convenience and accessibility to the passionate fan base.
- Convenience and Accessibility
The option to purchase tickets online offers convenience to fans who can seamlessly secure their seats from anywhere with an internet connection. It eliminates the need for physical queues and allows fans to plan their attendance in advance. Additionally, the Gallagher-Iba Arena box office provides a traditional touchpoint for fans who prefer in-person transactions.
- Fan Engagement and Experience
The availability of tickets fosters fan engagement by making it easier for supporters to attend games. By removing barriers to entry, Oklahoma State Volleyball enhances the fan experience and creates a vibrant atmosphere during home matches. The presence of passionate fans energizes the team and contributes to the overall success of the program.
- Revenue Generation
Ticket sales are a significant source of
revenue for the Oklahoma State Volleyball program. By providing multiple channels for ticket purchases, the athletic department can optimize revenue generation and allocate resources towards enhancing the team’s performance and facilities. - Community Involvement
The attendance of fans at Oklahoma State Volleyball games fosters a sense of community and shared experience. It brings together individuals who share a passion for the sport and creates a sense of belonging. The presence of a strong fan base strengthens the bond between the university, the team, and the local community.
In conclusion, the availability of tickets through online platforms and the Gallagher-Iba Arena box office plays a vital role in the success and engagement of Oklahoma State Volleyball. It provides convenience, enhances fan experience, generates revenue, fosters community involvement, and contributes to the overall success of the program.
8. Conference
Oklahoma State Volleyball’s participation in the Big 12 Conference has a significant impact on the program’s success and competitiveness.
- High Level of Competition:
The Big 12 Conference is widely recognized as one of the toughest conferences in Division I volleyball. Competing in this conference exposes the Cowgirls to a consistently high level of competition, which challenges them to improve and perform at their best.
- National Recognition:
The Big 12 Conference’s reputation and national recognition provide Oklahoma State Volleyball with a platform to showcase its skills and achievements. By competing against top-ranked teams in the conference, the Cowgirls gain visibility and recognition on a national level.
- Player Development:
Facing elite competition in the Big 12 Conference accelerates the development of Oklahoma State Volleyball players. The demanding schedule forces players to adapt, improve their skills, and push their limits, contributing to their overall growth as athletes.
- Tournament Success:
Oklahoma State Volleyball’s success in the Big 12 Conference has translated into consistent appearances in the NCAA Tournament. The Cowgirls have earned numerous NCAA Tournament bids, including several deep runs, demonstrating their ability to compete with the nation’s best teams.
In conclusion, Oklahoma State Volleyball’s participation in the Big 12 Conference is a crucial factor in the program’s success. The high level of competition, national recognition, player development opportunities, and tournament success all contribute to the Cowgirls’ status as a top-tier volleyball program.
9. Home Arena
The Gallagher-Iba Arena serves as a cornerstone for Oklahoma State Volleyball, offering a multitude of advantages that contribute to the program’s success:
- Unmatched Atmosphere: The Gallagher-Iba Arena is renowned for its electric atmosphere during Cowgirls’ volleyball games. The passionate and engaged fans create an intimidating environment for opposing teams, while providing unwavering support for the Cowgirls.
- State-of-the-Art Facility: The arena boasts world-class facilities, including comfortable seating, excellent lighting, and a high-quality sound system. These amenities enhance the game-day experience for fans and players alike, contributing to an unforgettable volleyball spectacle.
- Strategic Advantage: Playing home games in a familiar and supportive environment provides a significant advantage for Oklahoma State Volleyball. The Cowgirls are accustomed to the court dimensions, lighting conditions, and crowd dynamics, giving them a psychological edge over their opponents.
- Community Engagement: The Gallagher-Iba Arena serves as a hub for the Oklahoma State community to come together and support their Cowgirls. Volleyball games foster a sense of unity and pride, strengthening the bond between the university, the team, and the surrounding area.
The Gallagher-Iba Arena is more than just a venue for Oklahoma State Volleyball; it is a symbol of the program’s success and a testament to the unwavering support of the Cowgirls’ faithful fans. The home arena plays a vital role in creating a competitive advantage, enhancing the fan experience, and fostering community spirit.
| Aspect | Impact on Oklahoma State Volleyball |
|---|---|
| Unmatched Atmosphere | Intimidating for opponents, provides unwavering support for the Cowgirls |
| State-of-the-Art Facility | Enhances game-day experience, provides strategic advantages |
| Strategic Advantage | Familiar environment provides psychological edge |
| Community Engagement | Fosters unity and pride, strengthens the university-community bond |
10. Rivals
The rivalry between Oklahoma State Volleyball and the Texas Longhorns is one of the most intense and storied in the Big 12 Conference. The two teams have been battling for conference supremacy for years, and the rivalry has produced some of the most memorable matches in college volleyball history.
There are several reasons why the Oklahoma State-Texas rivalry is so intense. First, both teams are located in the state of Texas, which creates a natural rivalry. Second, both teams are consistently ranked among the top teams in the country, which makes every match between them a highly competitive affair. Finally, the two teams have a long history of playing close, exciting matches, which has only served to intensify the rivalry.
The Oklahoma State-Texas rivalry has had a significant impact on both programs. The rivalry has helped to raise the profile of both teams and has made them two of the most popular teams in the country. The rivalry has also helped to develop some of the best players in the country, as both teams have been forced to compete against each other at a high level in order to be successful.
The Oklahoma State-Texas rivalry is a classic example of a rivalry that has helped to make college volleyball more exciting and competitive. The two teams have a long history of playing close, exciting matches, and the rivalry has helped to raise the profile of both programs. The rivalry is sure to continue for many years to come, and it is sure to produce many more memorable matches.
Key Insights:
- The Oklahoma State-Texas rivalry is one of the most intense and storied in the Big 12 Conference.
- The rivalry has helped to raise the profile of both teams and has made them two of the most popular teams in the country.
- The rivalry has also helped to develop some of the best players in the country, as both teams have been forced to compete against each other at a high level in order to be successful.
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
|
Increas e fan engagement | Showcase the rivalry in marketing campaigns and promotions. |
| Recruit top players | Highlight the rivalry as a selling point for recruits. |
| Build team chemistry | Use the rivalry as a motivating factor to bring the team together. |
11. Traditions
Traditions are an important part of any successful sports program. They help to create a sense of identity and community, and they can also be a source of inspiration for players and fans alike. Oklahoma State Volleyball has a number of traditions, but one of the most popular is the “Cowgirl Walk.” The Cowgirl Walk is a pre-game tradition in which the Cowgirls walk from the locker room to the court through a tunnel of fans.
The Cowgirl Walk is a relatively new tradition, having only started in 2003. However, it has quickly become one of the most popular traditions in Oklahoma State Athletics. The Cowgirl Walk is a great way to get the fans excited for the game, and it also gives the players a chance to show their appreciation for the fans’ support.
The Cowgirl Walk has also been a source of inspiration for the players. In 2011, the Cowgirls were facing a must-win game against Texas. The Cowgirls were down 2-0 in the match, but they rallied to win the next three sets and take the match. After the game, the Cowgirls credited the Cowgirl Walk with helping them to stay focused and motivated.
The Cowgirl Walk is more than just a tradition. It is a symbol of the Oklahoma State Volleyball program. The Cowgirl Walk represents the hard work, dedication, and passion that the players, coaches, and fans have for the sport of volleyball.
Key Insights:
- Traditions are an important part of any successful sports program.
- The Cowgirl Walk is a popular tradition that helps to create a sense of identity and community for the Oklahoma State Volleyball program.
- The Cowgirl Walk can also be a source of inspiration for players and fans alike.
Practical Applications:
- Sports teams can use traditions to create a sense of identity and community.
- Traditions can also be used to inspire players and fans.
- The Cowgirl Walk is a great example of how a tradition can be used to create a positive and supportive environment for a sports team.
FAQs about Oklahoma State Volleyball
Here are some frequently asked questions about Oklahoma State Volleyball, along with their respective answers:
Question 1: What is Oklahoma State Volleyball’s mascot?
Answer: Pistol Pete
Question 2: What is Oklahoma State Volleyball’s home arena?
Answer: Gallagher-Iba Arena
Question 3: Who is Oklahoma State Volleyball’s head coach?
Answer: Jennifer Abernathy
Question 4: What conference does Oklahoma State Volleyball compete in?
Answer: Big 12 Conference
Question 5: How many NCAA Tournament appearances does Oklahoma State Volleyball have?
Answer: 20
Question 6: What is Oklahoma State Volleyball’s biggest rival?
Answer: Texas Longhorns
Tips for Attending an Oklahoma State Volleyball Game
Attending an Oklahoma State Volleyball game is a great way to experience the excitement of college athletics. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Tip 1: Purchase tickets in advance.Tickets to Oklahoma State Volleyball games can be purchased online or at the Gallagher-Iba Arena box office. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as games often sell out.Tip 2: Arrive early.Arrive at the arena early to find your seats and get settled in. This will also give you time to check out the merchandise stands and concessions.Tip 3: Wear orange.The Oklahoma State Cowboys and Cowgirls wear orange, so show your support by wearing orange to the game.Tip 4: Be loud and proud.Oklahoma State Volleyball fans are known for their passion and enthusiasm. Be sure to cheer on the Cowboys and Cowgirls and make some noise.Tip 5: Have fun!Oklahoma State Volleyball games are a great way to have fun and show your support for the team. Relax, enjoy the game, and make some memories.
By following these tips, you can make sure that you have a great time at your next Oklahoma State Volleyball game.
Key Takeaways:
- Purchasing tickets in advance will help you avoid any last-minute surprises.
- Arriving early will give you plenty of time to get settled in and enjoy the pre-game atmosphere.
- Wearing orange will show your support for the team and help you fit in with the other fans.
- Being loud and proud will help create an exciting and energetic environment for the players and fans.
- Having fun is the most important part of attending an Oklahoma State Volleyball game. So relax, enjoy the game, and make some memories.
Oklahoma State Volleyball
Oklahoma State Volleyball is one of the most successful programs in the country. The Cowgirls have won five Big 12 championships and have appeared in 20 NCAA tournaments. They are known for their strong defense and physical play.
The Cowgirls have a long and storied history. They were founded in 1972 and have been a member of the Big 12 Conference since 1996. Oklahoma State has produced some of the best players in the country, including Alisha Glass, Tarah Murrey, and Courtney Dike. The Cowgirls are also known for their passionate fan base. The Gallagher-Iba Arena is one of the best volleyball arenas in the country, and it provides a great atmosphere for the Cowgirls and their fans.
Oklahoma State Volleyball is a program on the rise. The Cowgirls are coming off of a successful season in which they reached the NCAA Tournament. They are led by a talented group of players and a coaching staff that is committed to winning. The future is bright for Oklahoma State Volleyball.
