Wisconsin Badgers Struck With Awful News Ahead of Upcoming NCAA Volleyball Season
Looks like the Wisconsin Badgers are already dealing with a tough blow before the season even kicks off! It was in March when the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) revealed that the second AVCA First Serve event will be hosted at the Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska, on 22nd to 24th of August 2025. This match is the beginning of the 2025 women’s volleyball season and will feature eight of the best teams in the country, including Kentucky, Nebraska, Louisville, and Wisconsin.
But the Badgers weren’t about to wait around for the official season to start. Head Coach Kelly Sheffield announced they’d be jumping into spring action early, playing four matches. Their spring break trip to Hawaii had them facing off twice with the Rainbow Wahine, before returning home to Wisconsin for two more matches against in-state rivals. The next game is scheduled for April 16 against Marquette and then against the University of Wisconsin Green Bay on April 22. However, just when things were about to heat up, the Wisconsin Badgers got some awful news ahead of their NCAA volleyball journey. Let’s just say, it’s a tough time to be a Badger fan right now.
Grace Lopez, the Wisconsin Badgers’ transfer star, shared some tough news on Instagram on April 1st. She posted, “I was beyond excited and fully prepared for this season, but sometimes life takes unexpected turns, and God had a different plan for me. Unfortunately, I’ve suffered another ACL injury, which means I’ll have to step away from the court for a while.” It was a huge disappointment for Grace, but she’s not letting it break her. She added, “This is not the journey I had envisioned, but I refuse to let it define me. Instead, I see it as another challenge, one that I will face with unwavering determination and resilience.”
Grace thanked everyone who’s been there for her, saying, “To everyone who has reached out, supported me, and stood by my side, I am truly grateful. Your kindness and encouragement mean the world to me.” She made a promise to come back even stronger, writing, “I promise to give my all, to push myself beyond my limits, and to come back stronger than ever. This is just a pause, not the end of my story.” She ended on a hopeful note, saying, “I’m looking forward to cheering on my Badger girls this season. See you soon better, stronger, and more determined than ever! Go Badgers!! 
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