LOVB professional volleyball game between Austin and Madison in Houston, Texas on January 10, 2025. (Photo from different game: Ralph Arvesen)
The nascent League One Volleyball (LOVB) season continued its exciting opening week with a flurry of matches. Following LOVB Salt Lake's four-set victory over LOVB Atlanta and LOVB Houston's thrilling five-set reverse sweep of LOVB Austin, the spotlight shifted to the Fort Bend Epicenter on Friday afternoon. There, LOVB Austin, eager to rebound from their previous night's defeat, delivered a resounding sweep of their own, decisively defeating LOVB Madison 25-21, 25-23, 25-18.
The undeniable star of the match was Juliann Faucette. The mother of three, who had last played professionally in Italy in 2021, delivered a performance for the ages, racking up 13 kills with an astounding .600 hitting percentage. Faucette's comeback story is one of inspiration and dedication. "I envisioned something like this in coming back because you want the hero moment, but to really feel it and do it and have my first professional start after having three children is pretty amazing," shared the 35-year-old Faucette, who, like eight of her teammates, honed her skills at the University of Texas.
Faucette's journey back to professional volleyball was fueled by a deep commitment. "I put in a lot of time, a lot of work, to get back into shape and I feel better than I have in a long time in my playing career," she explained. Her motivation extended beyond personal achievement. "The purpose is I have kids and I want to show them that this is possible and there are young women in this league who need to see that," she emphasized. "I didn't see it a ton in my time when I was younger. I didn't see a lot of moms still playing. To have it at the forefront for my teammates to see and for my kids to see, that's the victory."
Faucette's teammates also contributed to the victory. Logan Eggleston added seven kills and two blocks, while Asjia O'Neal chipped in with five kills and a block. Chiaka Ogbogu made her presence felt with five blocks, along with a kill and an ace. Saige Ka'aha'aina-Torres took the reins as the starting setter. "We have so much depth on this team and can put anyone out there," Faucette noted, highlighting the team's versatility.
LOVB Austin coach Marco Bonitta expressed his elation after the win. "You can't imagine how happy I am," he exclaimed. "I am happy for all the players because every day we practice and they do a great job in a great atmosphere with great, positive competition. Today we deserve to win." For LOVB Madison, Annie Schumacher led the offensive effort with 16 kills and a block. Claire Chaussee contributed eight kills, while Sarah Franklin, in her professional debut, added seven kills. Taylor Sandbothe recorded four kills, two blocks, and two aces.
Despite the loss, LOVB Madison's Lauren offered a positive perspective. "I'm honored to be playing in the States and even after the match being able to go and hug some of our friends and family who are here," she said. "That part was really cool. The on-court was really tough for us, but it was the first one and we've got to get it under our belts." She also acknowledged the support from afar. "But it was cool all the people who reached out before the game and knowing that they're all watching at home ... I’m looking forward to what we can do moving forward this season."
Schumacher echoed her teammate's sentiments. "Lauren covered it. That might have been the only fun part of tonight, honestly," she admitted. "We've got some work to do, but that's part of it. If there is a nice thing about losing, it’s that you get a blueprint of what you need to get better at." The match served as a valuable learning experience for LOVB Madison, providing a clear roadmap for improvement as they progress through the LOVB season.
Fan reviews:LOVB
We need more women's pro volleyball! We had an amazing time, were blown away by the athletes and the level of play! We are so proud of these women and are so excited to bring our youth athletes to watch them.
Really good experience watching the new pro volleyball team!
Fun time, will be back to see another. Had a great time with my daughter and we will definitely be back later this season.
I really enjoyed the game and the program that’s behind it.
We love LOVB! So excited for this league! To have all of these volleyball legends playing stateside and getting to see them play in person is a dream come true.
Match and crowd were electrified! Match was great! Absolutely love these professional athletes skills and determination! So happy to see women’s professional volleyball in the United States!
LOVB is the next major league! My 14 year old had an amazing experience. It’s great to see the rise in the sport and for the women to be able to stay in the US and play at the next level.
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