Only two weeks separate Illinois fans from the beginning of another Illini Volleyball season. Coming off of a Final Four appearance, the Illini will enter the 2019 season with the No. 6 spot in the AVCA coaches poll.
This year’s roster has two notable absences from the core of last year’s team in seniors Jordyn Poulter and Ali Bastianelli. The Illini also lost senior Blayke Hranicka, as well as defensive specialists Lexie Smith and Emmaline Walters.
Despite losing these pieces, Illinois was able to make some huge additions to the roster for the upcoming season. Outside hitter Bruna Vrankovic is a redshirt-freshman with previous professional playing experience.