Coach Trent Kersten’s second‑year squad has turned Eugene into a showcase for world‑class volleyball. The Ducks entered the 2026 season with just one rostered player, but today they field athletes from Brazil, Argentina, Serbia, Romania and the Netherlands, plus talent from seven U.S. states. That diverse lineup has helped the team compile a 20‑4 record and earn a No. 12 national ranking.
International stars drive on‑court success
Senior outside hitter Valentina Vaulet, a native of Córdoba, Argentina, leads the Ducks with 31 service aces and ranks third in kills per game (2.9). Dutch outside hitter Sjakkie Donkers averages 3.49 kills per set, while freshman Alanah Clemente, a California native and the conference’s freshman of the year, tops the team with 3.53 kills per set. Sophomore Maila Ribeiro from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, adds defensive strength, averaging more than two digs per game.
“It’s been a gift to coach people with such different perspectives,” Kersten said. “Their insights help the whole team understand the world better.” The coach believes the international experience enriches both the players and the program’s culture.
Fans respond with record attendance
November 7 marked the Ducks’ first home loss of the season, a 3‑0 sweep by undefeated Nebraska in front of a sell‑out crowd of 12,364 at Matthew Knight Arena. The atmosphere was electric, and despite the defeat the team rebounded the next day, defeating Northwestern 3‑1 to remain tied for second place.
Kersten hopes the sell‑out energy becomes routine. “When we zoom out, this is going to be a really special night, and it’s going to generate revenue for our university,” he said. Consistent fan support could secure the Ducks a top‑16 seed and a double‑bye in the Big Ten tournament beginning Nov. 20 in Fishers, Indiana.
Adjusting to new cultures and rules
International players note differences in rules and training. “In the Netherlands, even top‑level pros hold a job; you can’t live off volleyball alone,” Donkers explained. “Here the sport is so professional, even in college, with better staff and facilities.” Vaulet echoed the sentiment, praising the U.S. system for its academic and athletic resources.
Kersten also highlighted the tactical adjustments required. International rules allow fewer substitutions, demanding more well‑rounded skill sets. Terminology varies, too—what Americans call “left side” or “right side” becomes “Zone 1” or “Zone 2” abroad, sometimes causing confusion on the floor.
Looking ahead
The Ducks will travel this weekend to face USC and UCLA before the conference tournament. With a strong core of international talent and growing local support, the team is positioned to make a deep postseason run and further raise Eugene’s profile as a destination for elite volleyball.
“I’d recommend this to everyone,” Vaulet said. “In America, everything is set up for you to succeed—there are so many people here on campus to help you.”
Original reporting: Homepage – Lookout Eugene-Springfield — read the source article.
