Iowa Hawkeyes Volleyball gathered at the Big Ten Media Day on August 3, 2026, with Head Coach Jim Barnes highlighting his team's progress and commitment to elevating the volleyball program. He expressed confidence in the 13 returning players and two new portal additions, emphasizing the team's cohesive effort and optimism moving forward. Captains Liv Mogridge and Hannah Whittingstall echoed their coach鈥檚 sentiments, discussing the importance of leadership and team chemistry in pursuit of their NCAA goals.

By the Numbers
  • 13 returning players from last year's squad.
  • Two new portal players and two freshmen joining the team.
State of Play
  • The team focuses on strong leadership and camaraderie as they prepare for the season.
  • Coach Barnes is dedicated to improving defensive strategies and performance.
What's Next

The Hawkeyes aim to leverage their returning talent and added depth to achieve significant milestones this season, including making an impact in the inaugural Big Ten Volleyball Tournament and improving their status within the NCAA.

Bottom Line

Iowa Volleyball is on a mission to reshape its identity within the Big Ten Conference, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, player development, and a dedicated fan base, positioning themselves as a competitive force in collegiate volleyball.