Young Buckeyes Ready to Make Their Mark

"I hope that we can have a lot of fans in the stands this season because it really does make a difference," Londot said. "Having that energy and support from the crowd can push us to do better on the court." 
 
The Buckeyes' youthful roster will face tough competition in the Big Ten, one of the most competitive conferences in college volleyball. Teams like Wisconsin, Nebraska, and Penn State are perennial powerhouses in women's volleyball. 
 
However, Rader believes that Ohio State has what it takes to compete with these top teams. 
 
"We just need to focus on ourselves and not worry about who we're playing against," Rader said. "If we stick together as a team and play our game, I think we can surprise some people this season." 
 
Coach Flynn Oldenburg echoed Rader's sentiments about focusing on their own game rather than worrying about their opponents. 
 
"We talk a lot about controlling what we can control," Flynn Oldenburg said. "We need to focus on our side of the net and executing our game plan." 
 
With an emphasis on building team chemistry and leadership from upperclassmen like Londot and Rader, Ohio State is poised for improvement this season. 
 
"The sky is really the limit for this group," Flynn Oldenburg said. "They have all bought into what we are trying to accomplish here at Ohio State, and I believe they have what it takes to make a mark in college volleyball." 
 
As they prepare for their upcoming matches, Emily Londot emphasized how important it is for her team to stay focused on their goals. 
 
"We know where we want to go as a team, so every day when you come into practice or games, you have something specific you want out of today," Londot said. "You just try your best every single time you step onto that court because there's always room for growth." 
 
Ohio State opens its 2024 campaign against Dayton before heading westward later next week for matchups against Texas A&M Corpus Christi (Aug. 30) and Texas San Antonio (Sept. 1). The home opener will be held on Sept. 3rd, hosting Xavier University at St. John Arena, starting at noon! 
 
Overall, with young talent coming up through the ranks alongside experienced leaders like Emily Londot and Rylee Rader guiding them along the way, Buckeye Nation should expect big things from their women’s volleyball program this year!