Ethan Kuziela of the Illinois Wesleyan University men’s volleyball team was named an American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) First Team All-American on April 20, becoming the first player in program history to receive this honor. The announcement was made by the AVCA following a standout sophomore season for Kuziela.
Kuziela’s achievement marks a milestone for both himself and the Titans, highlighting his individual performance and the team’s progress during the season. His recognition brings attention to Illinois Wesleyan’s growing presence in collegiate men’s volleyball.
In addition to being named an All-American, Kuziela earned several other distinctions this year. He became IWU’s first-ever all-region honoree and was also selected as First Team All-College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW). Throughout the season, he received five CCIW Setter of the Week awards and one Hitter of the Week honor. On February 17, he became only the second Titan to be awarded AVCA National Player of the Week.
Kuziela played a key role in helping his team lead NCAA Division III in kills per set (13.41) and assists per set (12.35). He finished with five triple-doubles—more than any other player across Division III—and set new single-season records for kills, assists, aces, digs, and blocks at IWU. According to the official website, Illinois Wesleyan Titans Men’s Volleyball competes at NCAA Division III level as part of intercollegiate athletics.
Illinois Wesleyan hosts its home matches at Shirk Center in Bloomington, Illinois according to their official website. The team is a member of the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin according to their official website and features student-athletes from all undergraduate class years according to their official website. Brandon Mueller serves as head coach according to their official website.
Kuziela helped guide IWU to its best conference record yet—a 22-6 overall mark with an 8-2 finish in league play—and a ten-win improvement over last season. With nearly all players expected back next year except one graduating senior, expectations are high for continued success.
