The UW-Whitewater volleyball team welcomed 13 new freshmen for the 2025-26 season. They have just four upperclassmen on this year’s team with just one senior out of that group. For most college freshmen student-athletes, their first season is about finding their role and getting acclimated to collegiate athletics. For Ella Jenkins and Gaby DiMotto, this season has been about adjusting on the fly to help the 2024-25 national champion runner-ups get back to that stage.
There are always ups and downs in a season. For Dimotto, it’s dealing with the high expectations that come with starting as a freshman.
“The hardest is a different label. It’s more expected of us, the practices every single day and traveling,” DiMotto said.
For Jenkins, the support from coaches and teammates has been crucial for her success.

“The easiest part is our team being a family. The coaches are always helping us improve,” Jenkins said.
As the season progresses, these first-year players have been proving that they’re not just going through the learning process but are here to make meaningful contributions. Regardless if they’re on the bench waiting for their number to be called or getting an opportunity to be on the court during crucial moments, the two are always prepared.
“All the cheers on the sidelines are really good and we all really support each other,” DiMotto said.
Both freshmen have contributed in every game this season, and throughout the process they’ve learned plenty of lessons that will go far beyond volleyball.
“It definitely doesn’t come easy,” DiMotto said. “You have to work for every point. Some mistakes are gonna happen and I’m still learning.”
“We always have to keep working together, even when things get hard, you always have to be hard working and learn to be productive,” Jenkins added.
That mentality has already started to show on the court. Bringing that fresh energy and excitement gives the team a boost as they thrive on chemistry and trust. With such a young team, communication can be an issue. The Warhawks are still working to communicate better.
“I think I can improve more, especially since I’m still a freshman,” DiMotto said. “So I think I can still communicate a lot more. Just keep working hard to be the best version of myself every day.”
The road ahead will bring more challenges but this group of freshmen have already proven they’re ready for whatever comes next. They’ve shown a level of maturity and chemistry that will build a great base for years ahead.