Culture, Chemistry, and Competition: CU Denver Women’s Volleyball Elevates the Standard

DENVER, Colo. — September 2025, Energy, inclusivity, and steady leadership define the heartbeat of CU Denver Women’s Volleyball as the program continues to gain momentum within the University’s expanding Club Sports community. Entering the new season, the Lynx are guided by a veteran group of officers, April Dam, Ivy Han, Debora Espinoza Varela, Katie Steigerwald, and Tayla Ybarra, who are shaping a team culture grounded in camaraderie and competitive drive.

“If I could describe our team in one word, it would be enthusiastic,” said Ybarra, a fourth-year player. “We bring so much energy into everything we do — practices, games, and even off-court activities. The vibes are always positive and strong.”

For senior April Dam, now in her second year as an officer, the team’s togetherness has been the highlight of her leadership journey. “Seeing everyone get along and come together is the best part,” Dam said. “The connection we’ve built really shows on the court.”

That connection is mirrored off the court as well. Steigerwald, a first-year officer, noted how the team dynamic has strengthened friendships beyond volleyball.“It’s so cool to see teammates hanging out outside of practice,” she said. “We work hard together, but we also genuinely enjoy being around each other.”

Han, who oversees much of the team’s marketing and recruitment, has found pride in helping the roster grow through outreach.“It’s rewarding to meet players who first discovered us on social media and then see them join the team,” she said. “It’s proof that our community is expanding.”

Espinoza Varela added that honest communication has become one of the team’s greatest assets.“We give feedback and we’re able to take it, too,” she said. “That level of trust helps us improve while keeping things positive.”

Together, the officers have cultivated a culture that balances accountability with humor.“We definitely have tough love,” Han said with a laugh. “We can yell at each other in practice, but it’s always out of respect. Everyone knows it comes from a place of love.”

As CU Denver continues to invest in its Club Sports programs through increased media exposure, marketing support, and digital coverage, the volleyball officers see their efforts paying off, not just for this season, but for the program’s future.“It’s been amazing to watch how much we’ve grown in the past two years,” said Steigerwald. “I’m excited to see where it goes next.”

Han agreed, highlighting the importance of building a legacy that lasts.“Seeing younger players step up and want to be leaders gives us confidence,” she said. “We know the program will keep thriving even after we graduate.”

Pregame rituals are simple but meaningful and always include music.“I listen to music before every match,” said Dam. “It helps me get in the zone.”
“Me too,” added Steigerwald. “When me and Lauren (Middleton) are together, we share AirPods and listen to a hype playlist until the refs tell us to take them out.”

On game day, Ava brings the biggest energy in the gym, while Rosemary earns recognition as the player most likely to make a great future coach.

When asked how they hope to be remembered, the officers’ answers were unanimous: for their energy, positivity, and the relationships they built. “We want people to see that we’re competitive, but also kind,” Dam said. “We love the sport, and we love each other, that’s what defines us.”

With passion fueling their play and leadership guiding their growth, CU Denver Women’s Volleyball continues to set the tone for the next chapter of Lynx athletics, one built on teamwork, inclusion, and unwavering enthusiasm.

-Lorenzo Sisneros

Media Assistant, CU Denver Club Sports