Utah Volleyball Celebrates 50 Years with Alumni Night Against ASU

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – Utah Volleyball marked 50 years of excellence with a special Alumni Night, hosting No. 7 Arizona State on Saturday at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. The Utes displayed a competitive spirit, but ultimately lost in four tightly contested sets (23-25, 22-25, 25-20, 20-25).

The match opened with a fierce battle, featuring 10 ties and 7 lead changes in the first set. After exchanging points, Utah briefly led 8-6 before Arizona State surged ahead to take the first set 25-23.

The second set saw Utah attempt to rally after ASU took an early advantage. Despite notable performances from Ute players, including fresh talent, the Sun Devils secured the set 25-22.

The Utes found their rhythm in the third set, staging a comeback with a five-point run led by standout players. With a consistent lead, they closed the set at 25-20, igniting hope among fans.

However, the fourth set mirrored the previous battles, remaining neck-and-neck until Arizona State pulled away in the closing moments to win 25-20.

Current head coach, Beth Launiere, who has guided the program for 36 years, expressed pride in the team’s legacy. “This program has seen so much growth over the years,” she said, reflecting on the contributions of players and alumni that laid the groundwork for present successes.

Alumni, like former player Linda Byington, praised the advancements in women’s volleyball at Utah, noting the increasing support from the university and the broader visibility of women’s sports through platforms like ESPN.

Next up, the Utes will travel to Cincinnati on Wednesday, October 22 at 4:30 PM MT, followed by a match against West Virginia on October 24.