UPDATE: The Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) volleyball team is making headlines as they gear up for the NJCAA Division III national tournament in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, this Thursday, November 13, 2023, at 3 p.m. The Yellowjackets, boasting an impressive record of 22-8, are entering the tournament as the fourth seed, a significant leap from last year’s underdog status.
This year, RCTC is not just aiming for a respectable finish; they are determined to break into the top ranks after finishing in tenth place last season. Head coach Jen Nerison expressed her heightened expectations: “I think that we could at least land in fourth, but why not in the top three or the top two?”
In the first round, RCTC will take on the 13th seed Brookdale Community College, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling showdown. The Yellowjackets are riding high after sweeping through their regional semifinals and championship matches, showcasing their skills and teamwork.
The success of the Yellowjackets stems from a tight-knit team dynamic, with many players having previously competed together at club level or against each other in high school. Six of the team’s players hail from southeastern Minnesota, fostering a sense of familiarity and camaraderie that has proven vital this season.
“There’s a little bit of familiarity with some of the girls,” Nerison noted, highlighting how pre-season bonding activities have solidified their teamwork. This emotional connection has helped the team navigate challenges, particularly during a tough week before regionals.
Leading the charge offensively is freshman right-side hitter Lily Holtan, who has racked up an impressive 427 kills. Freshman setter Carmen Nerison has also been pivotal, delivering 1,024 set assists. Their combined efforts have been crucial, with Holtan adding 600 digs alongside Nerison’s 306.
Returning captains Jayda Bednarek and Reagan Hoff have also been instrumental in guiding the team, with Bednarek leading in digs at 569. Their experience is crucial for the largely freshman roster as they prepare to face formidable opponents at nationals.
“We had a rough week before regionals, and that was very tough on our whole team,” Holtan stated. “But we just kind of had to bounce back from that and find ways to work around what was the problem.”
Holtan, who initially hesitated to play college volleyball, credits assistant coach Rocky Xiong for encouraging her to join the team. Now, she feels a strong sense of belonging at RCTC, describing the environment as a “second family.”
As the Yellowjackets prepare for their national tournament, their journey reflects the culmination of hard work, resilience, and a deep connection among teammates. RCTC last captured the NJCAA D-3 National Championship in 2015, and with their current momentum, the team is poised to make a significant impact.
Stay tuned for more updates as RCTC takes the court!
