In December, our two volleyball specialists, Ron and Frederique, embarked on a special trip to Florida. On our social media channels, they took you along on their adventures in the States, and in this blog, we’ll take a look back at their journey. They visited various universities in the region, had numerous scheduled conversations with coaches, and witnessed Texas become the national champion up close.

The trip kicked off with a visit to Saint Leo University, the home of Slamstox tennis player Cheyenne Houkes. It’s a beautiful Division II university located just outside Tampa. Frederique and Ron were given a tour of the campus and had the opportunity to catch up with our own star.

The next day, two new universities were on the agenda, starting with the University of Tampa, located in the heart of the city. A meeting with Chris Catanach, the head coach of women’s volleyball, was scheduled here. Chris has been coaching for forty years, achieving over 1200 victories with the team and winning the national championship four times.

The next day, two new universities were on the agenda, starting with the University of Tampa, located in the heart of the city. A meeting with Chris Catanach, head coach of women’s volleyball, was scheduled. Chris has been coaching here for forty years, achieving over 1200 victories with the team and winning the national championship four times.

Between university visits, they also attended the annual coaching congress in Tampa. Ron encountered many old acquaintances from his time as a coach at Oregon State. But in the evenings, it was time for volleyball!

On Thursday evening, the semifinals took place, and with clear scores, Texas and Nebraska secured their spots in Sunday’s final. After a true masterclass in the final, Texas rightfully earned the title of ‘National Champion,’ just as they did last year. Check out the highlights of the match below.

Additionally exciting, a true indoor college volleyball record was set during the final. Never before had so many people attended. A staggering 19,727 spectators were present at the finale.

Back in the Netherlands, Ron and Frederique are more than ready to leverage their new connections, knowledge, and impressions to better assist all Slamstox athletes! Where should they take a look next time? Let us know! And if you, like these champions, want to combine your sport and studies in America, fill out this form, and we will contact you without any obligation.