Drake volleyball: Bigger, better and best yet

The Bulldogs set new standards, but are still reaching for more

One of 2022’s under-reported sports stories concerned the Drake volleyball team.

Let’s give the team its due.

The Bulldogs ended the most successful season in school history in the National Invitational Volleyball Championship (think how the NIT compares to the NCAA Division I tournament), finishing 30-8.

The team completed its final match in a four-set loss to Boston College 25-22, 21-25, 25-18, 29-27 Dec. 14 at the Knapp Center.

As a sportswriter who spent a lot of time covering Iowa high school and college volleyball, it was a delight to see a reported attendance of 1,341 fans at the match – playing for a national championship.

Drake’s volleyball team after ending a historic season. (Photo/John Naughton)

“It’s been the best season in the history of Drake’s program,” said Drake coach Darrin McBroom, who has brought stability and success to the team. “It’s been 10 years in the making to get to this point.”

The Bulldogs had a lot of talent, great balance and the ability to rise to the occasion.