SAN ANTONIO – The University of the Incarnate Word volleyball program has announced its 2023 schedule under first-year head coach Gabby Ording.
 
Ording was named head coach in January of 2023 after spending the past three seasons as an associate head coach at Southland Conference foe, Southeastern Louisiana University. She has spent the last several months rounding out her team and coaching staff to prepare for the 2023 season.
 
"I've seen a lot of growth individually and in our team dynamic over the course of a few months. We are starting to develop a team mindset and total team effort," Ording said. "We've kept things simple, focusing on execution and being aggressive in all aspects which will continue to build our confidence. With the schedule set, I see us having a lot of success with the entire roster. We will have a good mix of teams during pre-season play, allowing us to see some different lineups before Conference.
 
UIW is set to open the season with tournaments at Angelo State, Tarleton State, University of Texas at Arlington, and Florida Atlantic University. The Cardinals will host hometown rival, UTSA and Oral Roberts University during the annual Cardinal Classic, while Southland Conference play will begin on September 21 against Southeastern Louisiana at the McDermott Center.
 
"I am so excited to get back into the gym with the team," Ording added. "We had a great Spring together, getting out of our comfort zones, and focusing on becoming more competitive. I know they are ready to get back to playing Southland opponents and back to the Conference Tournament this year, and that will be our focus. 
 
The Cardinals have added four fresh new faces to the mix while returning most of last season's starting lineup.
 
"Anuhea Faitau, Junior Setter transfer from Tyler Junior College brings in a ton of playing experience. Anu played in every set during the 2022-23 season at TJC while running a 6-2 successfully. She's a dedicated athlete and has the right mindset to keep this team competitive. I am excited to add her to the roster and see her impact and collaboration on the offensive front." 
 
"Olivia Abbott, Freshman DS/Libero from Houston will add to our serve receive and defense strengths this Fall. She's played at a high level and for an established, competitive club that has prepared her well. I see her stepping on the court quite a bit allowing us to maintain solid depth in our first contact."
 
"Sofia Grimm, Freshman Middle/Pin from Houston will bring versatility to the roster in ways we will need. I like multi-position players, and those that are okay with being utilized where they are needed. I see her positivity and capabilities to do just that being an opportunity for us to be able to use different lineups through-out the season." 
 
"Victoria Hall, Freshman Setter from Metamora, Ill. is a great add to our roster. She's had the opportunity to compete in a different region than most girls on the team. From what I've seen she is the ultimate teammate as well; a positive addition for any coach." 
 
Assistant Coach, McKenzie Brewer returns for her second season with the Cardinals. "Having coached against McKenzie and worked with her a bit last fall I knew she would be an asset to keep on staff. She is always trying to learn and implement effective ways of training, which I've enjoyed being around and working with this Spring. I am looking forward to seeing how she impacts the team this fall. McKenzie is also an excellent recruiter, and well established and respected in San Antonio and across the state. It helps that she played and won in the Southland and has been coaching in the Conference for some time now. We have quite a bit of Southland experience combined."   
 
Assistant Coach, Shelby Cox is new to the staff this fall. "I'm happy to add Shelby to the staff. It has been great getting to know her and her vision and passion as a coach. She has Division I playing experience, college and club coaching/recruiting experience, and just recently been on the boy's side, so I know she is well-rounded in the training aspect. I'm excited to see her work with the team and have a positive impact."
 
Graduate Assistant, Maddy Davis will be another new addition this fall. "Maddy played for me when I was at LA Tech as an assistant. She was a tough competitor and I'm excited to see her impact on the team. She's been in the coaching world for a bit as well, so she brings another great set of eyes to the gym. I know she's excited about the opportunity to be back in Division I, and the team will benefit from her coaching and playing experience."
 
"My staff is finally complete, and I couldn't be happier with how it came together! We will have a ton of playing and coaching experience to collaborate and train the team with. I am most excited about the types of people they are. Everyone wants this program to be successful, and to have a positive impact on the team."
 
The full schedule can be found here.
 
FOLLOW ALONG 
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on Twitter @UIWAthletics and like UIW Athletics on Facebook at UIW Athletics. 
 
Follow the team on Twitter @UIWVolleyball and on Instagram @uiw_volleyball.