Evaluating Iowa Volleyball’s 2024-25 Season

The Iowa Hawkeyes wrapped up their 2024-25 volleyball campaign on Friday with a loss to No. 20 USC. Despite a final record of 10-22 overall and 4-16 in the Big Ten, this season showcased significant improvement. Their four conference wins were the most in two years, signalling positive strides for the program.

Here’s an in-depth evaluation of their performance this season:

Setting the Stage: A

Iowa’s setting game was a highlight this year. Junior setter Claire Ammeraal reached 2,000 career assists in just the second match of the season, showcasing her consistency and skill. Sharing court time with freshman Jenna Meitzler, the duo combined for 1,313 assists over the season.

“You can only get assists if your hitters are scoring,” Ammeraal said, acknowledging the collective effort. Head coach Jim Barnes praised Ammeraal, a Central Michigan transfer, for her offensive mindset.

“Claire is one of the most aggressive setters in the country, and that’s a perfect fit for our style,” Barnes said. He also commended Meitzler for stepping up when Ammeraal faced an early-season injury. “She thrives under pressure, which is rare for a freshman,” he added.

With both setters returning next season, Iowa has a solid foundation to build upon in the highly competitive Big Ten.

Offensive Power: C

Iowa’s offense showed potential but remained inconsistent. Six players recorded triple-digit kills, led by freshman Malu Garcia, who tallied 278 kills. Barnes highlighted Garcia’s competitive spirit and adaptability, traits that made her a standout recruit from Hawaii.

“She’s a fierce competitor and adjusts well to different plays,” Barnes said.

Another key offensive player was senior Michelle Urquhart, who finished with 266 kills and set a school record for service aces in a single season with 42. Her presence provided a mix of leadership and firepower.

“Playing alongside her was amazing,” said teammate Anna Davis. “She brings both intensity and calm leadership.”

Other notable contributors included sophomore Hannah Whittingstall (214 kills) and senior Gracie Gibson (197 kills). However, the Hawkeyes were outpaced by opponents in total kills, 1,534 to 1,440, leading to key losses, including a 3-1 defeat against Illinois.

Defensive Efforts: B

Iowa’s defense had its ups and downs. Early struggles against teams like Drake and Iowa State highlighted areas for improvement, but the defense showed resilience in tight matches. Notably, the Hawkeyes secured two 3-2 victories over Rutgers and Maryland.

Fifth-year libero Joy Galles, an Arizona transfer, anchored the defense with 444 digs, averaging 3.73 digs per set. She was supported by six other players who also reached triple-digit dig totals, including Ammeraal, Urquhart, and Garcia.

Blocking was another strong point, led by sophomore Hannah Whittingstall and senior Gracie Gibson. Whittingstall recorded 113 blocks, averaging 1.10 blocks per set, while Gibson added 106 blocks, averaging 0.94 per set.

Against top-tier teams like Nebraska, the defense struggled, but their blocking and digging efforts kept them competitive in closer matches.

The 2024-25 season highlighted growth and areas for further development. With key players like Ammeraal, Meitzler, Garcia, and Whittingstall returning, Iowa has a promising core for next season. Barnes’ leadership and the team’s improved fundamentals offer hope for a more competitive future in the Big Ten.

This season may not have been perfect, but the Hawkeyes laid the groundwork for long-term success.