Gainesville, FL

At the conclusion of the 2024 season, Santa Fe Volleyball posted a strong 15–11 overall record (including 10–4 at home) and a final ranking of #21 in the NJCAA. 5 straight wins at the tail end of the regular season propelled the Saints into a coveted spot in the FCSAA State Volleyball playoffs and #17 ranking in the NJCAA, their highest since 2021. Although they dropped the FCSAA Region VIII State Tournament Quarterfinal match to Daytona State, this was the first post season appearance for Saints under 3^rd year head coach Bailey Coleman and shows clear positive momentum heading into the 2025 season.

The 2024 Saints were a highly decorated team, with two All-Citrus Conference selections and one All-FCSAA selection. They also achieved the most solo blocks in a season (102), most kills in a match (66 vs Daytona State), attack attempts (203 vs Polk State), and points in a match (88 vs Polk State).

Maria Contreras had a phenomenal year, being selected for both First-Team All-Citrus Conference and First Team All-FCSAA. Additionally, Contreras was named FCSAA Setter of the Week two times in October with one of them also being NJCAA Setter of the Week. Contreras also has the most assists in a season (707), is tied for 4^th for the most aces in a season (38) and is tied for 4^th with 22 solo blocks in a season.

At the 2025 Players Choice Awards, Maria Contreras was given the Dr. Portia Taylor award for Volleyball. Given to a member of each of Santa Fe's five athletic teams, the Dr. Portia Taylor award honors the former vice president for her constant efforts and countless resources allocated for student athletes to invest more of themselves in academics. Contreras performed at an extremely high level both in the classroom and on the court this season and was this year's Volleyball recipient.

Aria Eisel was selected as Second-Team All-Citrus Conference and had also earned FCSAA Defensive Player of the Week in mid-October. Eisel is tied for 9^th for most sets in a season (99), tied for 8^th with 31 aces in a season, and is 6^th with 408 digs in a season.

Kailyn Howard was honored at the 18^th Annual FCA Heart of a Champion Banquet in March. FCA officials recognize high school student-athletes as well as UF and SF student-athletes who have the Heart of a Champion as defined by the values of integrity, service, teamwork, and excellence. This award specifically recognizes individuals who inspire others through their dedication both on and off the fields and courts, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship, perseverance and integrity. Howard was this year's recipient from Santa Fe and was celebrated for her positive influence on her team and in the community. Howard is 8^th all-time in a season in kills with 263, 5^th in season attack attempts with 796, tied for 4^th in season aces with 38, tied for 7^th in season solo blocks with 18, 8^th in season points with 327.0, and has match records for total kills (25) and total points (28.0).

Mariana Haas also had a very strong season, tying 9^th all time with most sets in a season (99), 5^th with 296 season kills, 4^th in season attack attempts with 880, tied for 4^th with 38 season aces and is 6^th for most points with 335.5 in 2025.

Linnea Preston is tied for 4^th in solo blocks in a season with 38.

Additionally, two members of the Sophomore class have signed to continue their academic and playing careers at four-year institutions!

Lauanna Pino – Texas Southern University - Story

Maria Contreras – Appalachian State University - Story

Volleyball achieved the highest team GPA for the fall and spring semesters within the Athletic Department, with a total of 12 players named to the All-Saints Team, signifying student-athletes who keep an average GPA above a 3.0. Both Maria Contreras and Lauanna Pino were named to the 2025 Academic All-District Women's College Division At-Large Team by College Sports Communicators.