Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) is celebrating a monumental achievement in collegiate volleyball as two of its standout players, Bianca Salvador and Kaitlyn Aleshire, have been named to the NJCAA All-American Volleyball Team for the 2024 season. Salvador was honored with a spot on the prestigious First Team, while Aleshire earned recognition on the Second Team. These accolades not only highlight their incredible individual talent but also reflect the strength and success of the Grizzly Volleyball program.
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Bianca Salvador: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Freshman outside hitter Bianca Salvador, hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, has taken the NJCAA volleyball world by storm in her debut season. With her powerful swings and strategic acumen, Salvador was instrumental in the Grizzlies’ offensive dominance throughout the season.
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Her ability to rise to the occasion during crucial moments set her apart as a true game-changer. Whether executing a precise attack or rallying her teammates with her dynamic energy, Salvador proved why she belongs among the nation’s elite. This remarkable consistency and high-level performance earned her a well-deserved place on the NJCAA First Team.
“Bianca has been a cornerstone of our success this season,” said Head Coach Paula Wiedemann. “Her talent, determination, and composure on the court have elevated the entire team.”
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Kaitlyn Aleshire: Rising Star of the Grizzlies
Kaitlyn Aleshire, another standout freshman and outside hitter from Chicago, Illinois, has also made her mark in a big way. Aleshire brought versatility and grit to the team, excelling in both offensive and defensive play. Her adaptability and athleticism made her a constant threat to opponents and a crucial player in the Grizzlies’ success.
Throughout the season, Aleshire demonstrated a remarkable ability to stay composed under pressure while delivering critical points for her team. Her efforts earned her a spot on the NJCAA Second Team, a testament to her hard work and bright future in collegiate volleyball.
“Kaitlyn is a tremendous athlete who has shown incredible growth and resilience,” Wiedemann shared. “Her contributions this year were vital, and she’s only going to get better.”
A Season to Remember for the Grizzlies
The 2024 season was a banner year for the MSU-WP Grizzlies, who finished with an impressive 37-6 overall record and an unblemished 6-0 mark in conference play. The team’s balance of a high-powered offense, averaging 13.47 kills per set, and a tenacious defense, tallying 15.32 digs per set, made them a formidable opponent on the court.
Under Coach Wiedemann’s leadership, the team delivered several standout performances, including key victories over Santa Fe College and St. Louis Community College. These wins underscored the team’s cohesion and ability to perform at the highest level.
Building a Legacy
The honors awarded to Salvador and Aleshire reflect not only their individual brilliance but also the culture of excellence cultivated within the MSU-WP Volleyball program. With both players returning next season, the future looks incredibly bright for the Grizzlies.
“These young women embody what it means to be a Grizzly,” Wiedemann said. “They work hard, support their teammates, and rise to challenges with unwavering determination. The best is yet to come for this team.”
The Grizzlies’ accomplishments this season are a source of pride for Missouri State University-West Plains and its supporters. The All-American recognitions serve as a milestone in the program’s history and a sign of even greater achievements on the horizon.
Fans and volleyball enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating the 2025 season, confident that this talented group will continue to make waves and set new standards for success. The journey of the Grizzlies and their rising stars promises to be one of inspiration and excitement.
