Spring Volleyball in Full Swing

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The 2025 spring season is in full swing for the Vanderbilt volleyball team with one out of three exhibition matches complete.

For the first time in 45 years, the Commodores took the court at Brentwood High School for an exhibition with in-state rival Tennessee. The match drew a crowd of 1,000 people, which was the gym’s capacity.

In the fall, the Dores spent their days in the practice gym while the rest of the volleyball world was busy with NCAA competition. Now, Vandy is on the same timeline as every other collegiate program.

“Our first exhibition against Tennessee was a core memory for our athletes,” head coach Anders Nelson said. “The pure joy across the faces of our players and staff was incredible to see. I was really impressed with our team’s composure and competitiveness; they were ready for the moment. We passed the ball well, which is always an encouraging sign. The support from the Nashville volleyball community was unbelievable—early lines, a packed gym and even having to turn people away due to capacity. That kind of energy means everything to our program.”

Setter Isabella Bareford scored the Commodores’ first point. Every Dore saw the court in front of a crowd of Vanderbilt fans, family and friends.

“Now, we turn our focus to our next test against the national runner-up Louisville, and we can’t wait to see how we stack up,” Nelson said.

Vandy’s next spring match will be March 28 versus Louisville, the runner-up to the 2024 NCAA title, at Central Hardin High School in Cecilia, Kentucky. First serve is set of 6:30 p.m. CT. Tickets will be sold at the door for $10 and children 10 and under can enter for free.

Fans can follow Vanderbilt volleyball on X and Instagram at @VandyVolleyball for updates. Those interested in supporting Vanderbilt volleyball can do so through the program’s giving page. Fill out the season ticket interest form to be notified when season tickets go on sale.