The University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC), home of the Kansas City Roos, has steadily built a competitive and spirited volleyball program within NCAA Division I athletics. Known for its disciplined team culture, strong leadership, and loyal home-court fanbase, the Roos volleyball team continues to gain recognition on the national stage. Here’s a complete overview of the program, its facilities, recent performance, and what to expect in the upcoming 2025 season.
Program Overview
UMKC’s volleyball team competes in NCAA Division I as part of the Summit League, one of the more competitive mid-major conferences in college volleyball. The Roos have carved a niche for themselves as a program that consistently battles hard against top conference opponents and maintains a winning culture at home.
With a coaching staff known for player development, tactical discipline, and high standards, the program continues to attract promising talent from across the country and internationally.
Home Court Advantage
The Roos play their home games at the Swinney Recreation Center, a modern and energetic venue that supports up to 1,500 fans. The court’s compact and electric atmosphere creates a true home-court advantage, often overwhelming visiting teams. Over the years, Kansas City has built a strong home record, a reflection of both player performance and local fan support.
Head Coach Leadership
The team is guided by one of the most experienced and respected coaches in the Summit League. Now in her 15th season, the head coach has transformed the Roos into a disciplined, hard-working unit known for its consistency and grit. Under her leadership, the team has maintained a winning home record, produced all-conference players, and made frequent appearances in the Summit League postseason.
Her coaching style emphasizes:
- Player accountability
- Fast, defensive-minded play
- Technical serving and smart setting
- Strong academic support alongside athletic growth
2024 Season Highlights
In the 2024 season, the Roos reached the quarterfinals of the Summit League tournament, showcasing strong teamwork and standout individual performances. Despite a tough loss in the elimination round, the team demonstrated resilience and laid a solid foundation for the future.
Key highlights from last season included:
- A balanced attack across outside hitters and middles
- Impressive serving aces and blocking stats
- Solid leadership from senior players
- Gritty five-set victories at home that ignited the crowd
2025 Season Preview
The 2025 schedule is packed with exciting non-conference tournaments and crucial league matchups. The Roos are set to travel for early-season invitationals and then return home to host a string of Summit League opponents throughout the fall.
Notable features of the 2025 season:
- Participation in three out-of-state invitational tournaments in August and early September
- Nine home games including eight conference matches
- Key rivalries against teams like South Dakota, North Dakota, Omaha, and Denver
With a strong mix of seniors and new recruits, the coaching staff has high hopes for a deep postseason run.
Key Players to Watch
The 2025 roster includes a strong mix of experience and young energy. Several upperclassmen are returning for their final seasons, while talented underclassmen are expected to step into bigger roles.
Seniors:
- Nyle Mathis (OH) – A powerful hitter with great court awareness and agility.
- Kailee Deffebaugh (MB) – Consistent in blocks and known for quick attacks.
- Maria Eduarda Motta (OH/RS) – Brings international flair and versatile shot selection.
- Kimora Whetstone (MB) – Quick feet and dependable net presence.
Sophomores:
- Coco Buschhorn (Setter) – Known for her precise setting and high volleyball IQ.
- Ryanne Wattree (RS/OH) – Strong rotational player with great defensive instincts.
Other standouts:
- Ledisi Kpea (MB/RS) – A promising redshirt sophomore who adds depth to the front row.
- Doga Eski (OH) – Offers height, reach, and effective offensive execution.
This dynamic roster is balanced across all positions—setters, hitters, middles, and liberos—allowing for strategic flexibility in tough matches.
Academic and Athletic Culture
The volleyball program at UMKC prides itself not only on court performance but also on academic success. Players consistently earn academic honors and maintain high GPAs, showing the program’s dedication to developing well-rounded student-athletes.
Team values include:
- Integrity and discipline
- Academic excellence
- Leadership in community engagement
- Long-term personal and athletic development
Recruitment and Scholarships
The coaching staff actively recruits players nationwide and internationally. Prospective athletes looking to join the Roos should focus on:
- Competitive high school or club experience
- Strong fundamentals in passing, serving, and court movement
- Consistent performance in tournaments or showcases
- High academic standing for scholarship opportunities
The program offers both athletic and academic scholarship options, making it an appealing choice for well-rounded student-athletes.
Final Thoughts
The University of Missouri–Kansas City volleyball program is one of the hidden gems in Division I athletics. With a passionate coaching staff, excellent facilities, and a team-first mindset, the Roos are poised to make waves in the 2025 season. Whether you’re a prospective athlete, a student, or a volleyball enthusiast in the Kansas City area, the Roos volleyball team is well worth watching this year.
As the program continues to grow in strength and recognition, it remains a top destination for those who seek to balance athletic competition with academic achievement and community leadership.