DAVIS, Calif. – The UC Davis volleyball team’s defensive corps is poised for a strong 2024 season, with returning liberos Ximena Cordero Barr, Makena Morrison, and Rachel Dunagan expected to play key roles. This announcement comes as the Aggies prepare for their first official practice on August 16th at the Pavilion.
Libero positions are crucial in volleyball, specializing in ball control, digging, and serve receive, while also providing backup setting support. The position demands exceptional agility, reflexes, and communication skills.
Senior – Makena Morrison
Morrison, a senior hailing from Whittier, California, enters the 2024 season after primarily serving as the backup libero to Julia Ng during the previous year. She appeared in multiple matches, showcasing her skills in crucial moments.
During a match at Washington State on September 16, 2023, Morrison achieved a season-best of five digs. She also made a notable contribution in a home game against Sacramento state on September 23, 2023, delivering four service aces to help secure a victory for the Aggies.
Junior – Rachel Dunagan
Dunagan,a junior from Seattle,Washington,is entering her third season with the UC Davis volleyball program,having first seen collegiate action in 2024. She brings valuable experience and a growing understanding of the team’s dynamics.
In 2023, Dunagan participated in six matches, notably recording a season-high of two digs and one assist during the Aggies’ home win against UC Riverside on October 8, 2023.
Sophomore – Ximena Cordero Barr
Cordero Barr, a sophomore originally from Tijuana, Mexico, is returning after a standout freshman season that earned her recognition on the big West All-Freshman Team in 2023. She appeared in all 29 matches, starting in five.
Throughout the 2023 season, Cordero Barr amassed 157 digs, demonstrating her defensive prowess.She also contributed offensively with 29 kills, 56 assists, and 31 service aces. A especially strong performance came during a road game against UC Riverside on november 11, 2023, where she recorded a season-high of eight kills and 20 digs in an Aggie victory. the Aggies finished the 2023 season with an overall record of 16-13 and a Big West Conference record of 8-8.
