Arizona State Volleyball’s Evolving Culture Amid Roster Changes
By Tre Heard
TEMPE – Arizona State junior middle blocker Antonina “Tosia” Serafinowska found herself with numerous options after entering the transfer portal from Wisconsin. However, she sought more than just a new place to play volleyball.
“I was looking for a program that would help me grow into the athlete, person, and student I want to be,” Serafinowska stated.
Her decision to join ASU was influenced by meaningful conversations with coach JJ Van Niel and his staff. “I had multiple meetings with different schools and coaches, and I just had some kind of flow and vibe with JJ,” she explained.
This supportive environment has been pivotal as ASU navigates significant roster changes. The Sun Devils currently boast a 9-2 record heading into their first Big 12 contest against West Virginia.
Maintaining Excellence Despite Changes
ASU has a history of success, having won back-to-back Big 12 championships. This season, the team is favored to capture a third title despite graduating six players and bringing in 10 newcomers, including five transfers and five freshmen.
Van Niel emphasizes the importance of building a culture that thrives even during such transitions. “A lot of stuff happens in the locker room when coaches aren’t around, so we have to trust our players and our veterans,” he said.
Selective Recruitment for Cultural Fit
Recruiting coordinator Ellen Joiner highlights ASU’s selective approach to recruitment. The focus isn’t solely on talent; they seek players who will align with the program’s established culture. “We like motivated players that are trying to be the best versions of themselves,” Joiner mentioned.
With high turnover rates, maintaining the culture is crucial. “One bad egg can kind of ruin an entire culture,” she added.
Players like junior middle blocker Zoey Burgess, who transitioned to ASU from Kansas, play an essential role in reinforcing this culture. “Being one of the only players that returned, it does give me a new leadership role,” Burgess said.
Building Relationships Beyond the Court
To foster team bonds, ASU encourages player-led initiatives. The culture committee organizes activities, like cooking competitions, promoting relationships outside of volleyball. This approach helps newcomers feel included and valued.
Joiner noted, “There’s a leadership committee as well with three people on it that’s voted by the team, so they choose the leaders.” This structure empowers players to actively contribute to the culture.
The Legacy of Acceptance
As Serafinowska observes, players like senior middle blocker Ella Lomigora exemplify selflessness and teamwork. “She keeps us together and helps run practices,” Serafinowska remarked. “I feel like people like her make the program what it is.”
Ultimately, ASU’s enduring culture isn’t about retaining the same faces but maintaining consistent expectations. Van Niel believes that, at the end of the day, the program belongs to the players.
For Burgess, her legacy is tied to acceptance and fostering a welcoming environment. “I really just want to be remembered as how accepting I was,” she stated.
With new transfers and graduations on the horizon, ASU’s culture aims to remain strong, guided by the ethos that you get out what you put in.
