As the Augustana men’s volleyball team wrapped up its season, the program’s senior class left behind much more than a record. In a season marked by challenges and growth, the senior class has defined the culture, energy and resilience of the team. 

After a 3-1 loss to Loras College on April 1, the Vikings responded with a 3-0 victory over North Park on their senior night, ending the season on a high note. But for those involved in the program, the results only share some of the story. 

While the team experienced ups and downs throughout the season, players say the senior class will be remembered less for its record and more for the foundation it created. For junior Colin Schaefer, one of the ways the seniors would be remembered is their positive attitude at practice and how they pushed younger players to be better teammates and competitors. 

“They’re always putting others in front of them,” Schaefer said. “Out of all the other classes, they’re usually the loudest people at practice. They’re the vocal point. They’re the people that are trying to get everyone to have fun.” 

That emphasis on energy and connection became especially important during a season that tested the team’s consistency. Even in difficult situations, players pointed to the senior class as a stable 

presence.

“They’re just really good role models,” Schaefer said. “They come to practice with a smile on their face. They challenge us to be better people.” 

That sense of resilience is something that’s shared across the roster, including players whose time with the program is ending sooner than expected. Ben Georgia, a junior who is graduating early and was recognized on senior night, said the team’s ability to respond in difficult situations defined much of the season. 

“It shows that we still have fight, even if our record doesn’t show that,” Georgia said. “I think something we’ve learned is that we can always bounce back.”

Georgia pointed to a five-set win over the Milwaukee School of Engineering earlier in the season as a prime example of that perseverance, recalling it as one of his favorite memories with the program. 

“I’ve learned to always keep working, no matter what situation I’m in, no matter if the team is down,” Georgia said. 

Their never give up mindset showed up consistently in the team’s play throughout the season. Augustana fought through a demanding schedule filled with tough matches and momentum swings, often pushing opponents deep into sets and refusing to back down in high-pressure moments.

Even in losses, the Vikings remained competitive, showing flashes of the resilience that the senior class emphasized. Their ability to respond, whether during long rallies or after dropped sets, reflected a team that continued to grow more connected as the season continued. 

Senior Grayson Juel said some of his favorite memories didn’t come during matches, but in the everyday moments with teammates. While it was his last season, it was also about making the most of every day and having as much fun as he could. 

“I just remember those practices being some of the most fun practices I’ve had on the team,” Juel said. “For the game, it was just a very exciting feeling going into Saturday.” 

That sense of enjoyment and connection carried into competition, helping the team stay loose and confident throughout the season. 

Juel added that maintaining perspective was key during both the highs and lows of the season; you just have to take it one day at a time and have the best mindset you can. 

As his time in the program comes to an end, Juel said the biggest takeaway has been the opportunity to share the court with his teammates.