In a remarkable achievement, all seven starters from the University of Pittsburgh volleyball team have been recognized as all-conference selections by the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), as announced on Monday afternoon. This marks the second consecutive year that seven Panthers have received All-ACC honors.
Pitt’s head coach, Dan Fisher, was awarded the 2024 ACC Coach of the Year after guiding the team to an exceptional 29-1 overall record and a 19-1 finish in ACC play. This is Fisher’s third ACC Coach of the Year accolade. Additionally, the Panthers earned the top spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in program history and captured their sixth ACC Championship title.
Olivia Babcock garnered the prestigious title of 2024 ACC Player of the Year. Known for her outstanding performance last season, where she was named the ACC Freshman of the Year, Babcock is now just the second player in the program’s history to receive this award. With an impressive average of 5.87 points per set, she has seen her name mentioned as a semifinalist for the AVCA National Player of the Year, and has won multiple accolades, including ACC Offensive Player of the Week on three occasions.
Rachel Fairbanks, another standout player, also earned a spot on the First Team All-ACC for the second straight year. She is currently enjoying a career-best average of 10.33 assists per set, ranking fifth in the program’s history, and has shown significant defensive strength with an average of 2.22 digs per set. Fairbanks was named the 2023 ACC Setter of the Year and is a semifinalist for the AVCA National Player of the Year.
Torrey Stafford has had a breakout sophomore season, being named to the First Team All-ACC and leading all Power Four outside hitters in hitting percentage with an impressive 0.377. She contributes significantly on offense with an average of 3.76 kills per set, alongside 2.24 digs per set.
Bre Kelley made an impressive comeback after an injury sidelined her last season, earning First Team All-ACC honors for the first time. Averaging 1.53 blocks per set, she is ranked third in the conference and boasts a remarkable hitting percentage of .514. Kelley has also earned accolades as the ACC Defensive Player of the Week.
Valeria Vazquez Gomez, in her sixth season, has been a vital contributor to the team, earning Second Team All-ACC honors. She recently joined the exclusive 1,000 kill and 1,000 dig club, showcasing her all-around ability on the court.
Finally, Emmy Klika continues to excel in her final season, known for her exceptional passing capabilities. A two-time Second Team All-ACC selection, she has played a key role in helping Pitt maintain one of the best defensive records in the nation.
This recognition not only marks a high point for the Pitt volleyball program but also indicates a bright future, with the team showcasing a combination of talent, resilience, and teamwork. As they head into the NCAA Tournament, they carry the momentum and accolades that could lead to even greater accomplishments ahead.