Now nearing the start of the 2026 season, Iowa has used the offseason to work hard and be a contender across multiple aspects of play, including its firepower from the middle. We came to make people talk about volleyball, and we’ve got a great group of players that came together in January.” Also present at Monday’s event in Chicago were fourth-year Hannah Whittingstall and fifth-year Liv Mogridge, both expected to be prominent middle hitters for the 2026 team. “I’ve been so privileged to be a part of what we’re building here at Iowa,” Whittingstall said. For Whittingstall, while another year after the 2026 season may be available, the goal for this season remains unchanged.