RCTC Volleyball Charges Into National Tournament as 4th Seed

URGENT UPDATE: The Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) Yellowjackets are set to make their mark in the NJCAA Division III national volleyball tournament, kicking off on November 13, 2023, at 3 p.m. CT. After an impressive season with a 22-8 overall record, the Yellowjackets enter the tournament as the fourth seed, poised for a strong performance against No. 13 seed Brookdale Community College at the Alliant Energy Powerhouse Arena in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Unlike last year, when RCTC entered the tournament as the 13th seed and finished 10th, this year’s team feels they have a real shot at the championship. Coach Jen Nerison expressed confidence, stating, “We could at least land in fourth, but why not in the top three or the top two?” The Yellowjackets are aiming to build on their momentum after sweeping their opponents in both the regional semifinals and championship.

The camaraderie among the players has been a key factor in their success this season. With six of the 13 players hailing from southeastern Minnesota, the team has a unique familiarity that enhances their performance on the court. “There’s a little bit of familiarity with some of the girls,” said Nerison, highlighting the importance of team chemistry.

Leading the charge for the Yellowjackets is freshman right-side hitter Lily Holtan, who has amassed 427 kills, and freshman setter Carmen Nerison, who has recorded 1,024 set assists in just 30 matches. This dynamic duo has contributed to the team’s overall success, proving that talent coupled with strong relationships can yield impressive results.

The emotional resilience of the Yellowjackets has been put to the test this season, particularly after a challenging week leading up to regionals. Holtan reflected, “We had a rough week before regionals, and that was very tough on our whole team. We just kind of had to bounce back from that.” Her emphasis on mental toughness and teamwork resonates strongly as they prepare for the fierce competition ahead.

RCTC last claimed the NJCAA Division III National Championship in 2015, and with their current momentum, fans are hopeful for a return to glory. The Yellowjackets’ 22 wins mark the highest for the program since the 2019-20 season. As the team gears up for their matchup against Brookdale, they carry the weight of expectations and the spirit of their community with them.

This is a defining moment for RCTC volleyball, and the buzz surrounding the tournament is palpable. Fans and players alike are ready to rally behind the Yellowjackets as they aim for victory and strive to etch their names in history once again. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Cedar Rapids to see how this talented and cohesive team performs on the national stage.

Stay tuned for updates as the Yellowjackets embark on their national tournament journey!