Austin, August 16, 2025
News Summary
In a preseason scrimmage against No. 23 Utah, Torrey Stafford led the Texas volleyball team with 13 kills, contributing to the team’s strong start. Despite winning the first three sets, Texas ultimately faced challenges as Utah claimed the last two sets. Coach Jerritt Elliott emphasized the importance of building team dynamics as they prepare for the competitive season ahead.
Austin, Texas – Torrey Stafford Leads Texas Volleyball in Preseason Scrimmage Against Utah
Torrey Stafford, a recent transfer from Pittsburgh, showcased her skills during a preseason scrimmage for the Texas volleyball team, who are currently ranked No. 5 in the American Volleyball Coaches Association preseason poll. The scrimmage took place at Gregory Gymnasium, where Texas faced No. 23 Utah, sweeping the first three sets with scores of 25-19, 27-25, and 25-19. Utah rallied to claim the final two sets, but the match served as a vital platform for Texas as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Stafford distinguished herself by leading the Longhorns with 13 kills while only recording four hitting errors over 27 attempts during the first three sets. Her strong performance was complemented by setter Ella Swindle, who contributed 27 assists, nine digs, three aces, and three kills. The officials did not maintain statistics for the final two sets.
Coach Jerritt Elliott explained that while the result of the scrimmage was positive, the true focus was building team rhythm in preparation for a competitive season. With the team only having a week of practice prior to the match, it was essential for the Longhorns to hit their stride quickly. The Texas roster includes five freshmen among the 16 players, which highlights a significant youth movement within the team.
Freshman Cari Spears struggled during the scrimmage, amassing 10 hitting errors alongside six kills on 27 swings. Fellow freshmen Abby Vander Wal and Taylor Harvey also participated, contributing to the team’s efforts albeit inconsistently. Stafford expressed eagerness to assist in the development of her younger teammates and to foster a sense of teamwork and confidence as they move forward.
Coach Elliott recognized Stafford for her influential leadership and her positive impact on the team’s culture and success. Swindle, who was part of the previous year’s national championship-winning team, remarked on the strong bond and comfort level among the players, which is essential given the roster changes faced by the team.
A notable factor in Texas’s performance during the initial three sets was their height advantage, with no player shorter than 6-foot-2 rotating onto the court, creating a formidable presence at the net. As the Longhorns prepare for the forthcoming season in November and December, they aim to solidify their championship aspirations.
This preseason scrimmage not only served as a competitive practice but also as a stepping stone for the Texas volleyball team to gain momentum leading into the season ahead.
FAQ Section
Who is Torrey Stafford?
Torrey Stafford is a volleyball player who recently transferred to the Texas program from Pittsburgh, where she had two stellar seasons.
How did the Texas volleyball team perform in their preseason scrimmage against Utah?
The Texas volleyball team swept the first three sets against Utah but lost the final two sets during a preseason scrimmage held in Austin.
What were Stafford’s statistics in the match?
Torrey Stafford led the Longhorns with 13 kills and recorded four hitting errors on 27 swings through the first three sets.
What is the significance of this scrimmage for Texas volleyball?
The scrimmage serves as a competitive practice to build momentum and team chemistry ahead of the upcoming season, helping players adjust and enhance their skills.
Key Features of the Texas Volleyball Preseason Scrimmage Against Utah
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Highlight | Torrey Stafford led with 13 kills |
| Match Outcome | Texas won the first three sets; Utah won the last two |
| Set Scores | 25-19, 27-25, 25-19, (Final two sets not scored) |
| Team Composition | 16-player roster, including five freshmen |
| Coaches’ Focus | Rhythm and teamwork development over score |
| Next Season | Season looming in November and December |
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Additional Resources
- Austin American-Statesman
- Wikipedia: Texas Longhorns Women’s Volleyball
- Texas Longhorns Official Site
- Google Search: Torrey Stafford Texas Volleyball
- Pittsburgh Sports Now
- Google Scholar: Texas Volleyball
- Texas Longhorns Official Site
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas Volleyball
- Sports Illustrated Pittsburgh
- Google News: Torrey Stafford Texas Volleyball
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