Cardinal Classic Showcases Rising Stars and Veteran Leadership

Louisville Volleyball fans had plenty to cheer about during the Cardinal Classic, as standout performances from both freshmen and veterans highlighted an exciting opening weekend at L&N Federal Credit Union Arena.

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Freshman defensive specialist Hannah Kenny wasted no time making her presence felt from the service line. In just her third collegiate match, Kenny fired off five aces on 43 total attempts, showing both poise and power in critical moments.

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On the offensive side, fellow freshman Kalyssa Blackshear made her debut in a brand-new role — shifting from middle blocker in high school and club to the opposite position for the Cards. She started both matches against Auburn and Morehead State, finishing with 14 kills on a .324 hitting percentage. For a true freshman adjusting to a new spot on the floor, those numbers made a loud statement.

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The weekend MVP honors went to junior libero Kamden Schrand, who anchored the Cardinal defense in her first outing wearing the libero jersey. Schrand tallied 44 digs across three matches, averaging over five per set, and paired it with an outstanding 2.78 passing average on a four-point scale. Her steady command of the back row proved she’s ready to set the defensive tone this season.

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Louisville also got an efficient debut from freshman middle blocker Addison Makun, who swung near .300 while contributing four stuff blocks and seven positive block touches.

At the net, redshirt junior Hannah Sherman provided the veteran presence. She paced the Cardinals with nine stuff blocks and nine positive touches, averaging nearly two blocks per set to solidify Louisville’s front line.

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With breakout performances from new faces and steady contributions from established leaders, Louisville showed the perfect balance of promise and experience. The future is bright, the standard remains high, and the 2025 campaign is officially rolling.

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Top Performers: Cardinal Classic

• Kills Leader: Kalyssa Blackshear – 14 (.324 hitting)
• Digs Leader: Kamden Schrand – 44 (5.0 per set)
• Blocks Leader: Hannah Sherman – 9
• Aces Leader: Hannah Kenny – 5