CEDAR CITY, Utah – Defense and net presence are the backbone of any successful volleyball team, and Southern Utah will lean heavily on both in 2025. With an exciting libero group and a mix of proven middle blockers and talented newcomers, the Thunderbirds are building a strong foundation up the middle of the court.
Head Coach Danielle Jensen Said
"Our liberos and middles are going to be essential to this team. Aleeya brings veteran presence, and Amanda gives us extra depth and energy, and our middles are as athletic and competitive as any group we've had. With Kaitlyn's experience, Amaya's growth, and Ajia's athleticism, we've got the right mix to protect the net and keep rallies alive."
Liberos
Graduate transfer Aleeya Jones is set to anchor the back row with a wealth of collegiate experience, having competed at Tennessee Tech, Iowa Western, and now Southern Utah. Jones enters her final season with over 700 career digs, more than 75 service aces, and a reputation as a steady passer under pressure. She played in every match last season for Tennessee Tech, ranking among team leaders in aces while recording 239 digs. Her consistency in serve receive and ability to spark momentum from the service line make her a leader in the libero room.
Rotating in as part of the defensive unit is true freshman Amanda Mendoza from El Paso, Texas. Mendoza arrives following a standout prep career where she guided El Paso High School to a district title and earned District MVP and All-City honors. Mendoza's quickness, court awareness, and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game give SUU another promising piece for the future.
Middle Blockers
In the middle, Amaya Tobias returns for her junior season after making big strides in 2024. She posted 64 kills and 34 blocks across 18 matches, highlighted by strong performances against Grand Canyon and California Baptist. Tobias' length and improving offensive efficiency position her as a key contributor at the net.
Joining her is transfer Kaitlyn Aleshire, one of the most decorated newcomers on the roster. Aleshire was a 2024 NJCAA Division I Second Team All-American at Missouri State–West Plains, where she dominated with 328 kills, 130 blocks, and a .323 hitting percentage. Her ability to score while also controlling the net defensively gives Southern Utah a potential difference-maker in the middle.
Rounding out the group is senior Ajia Hughes, a familiar name to Thunderbird fans from her success in track and field, where she earned Second Team All-American honors in the high jump. Now switching gears to volleyball, Hughes adds athleticism and depth to the middle blocker rotation as she transitions her skills to the hardwood.
With a mix of veteran experience, junior college standouts, and young talent, Southern Utah's libero and middle blocker units have the tools to control the defensive side of the game while contributing offensively at key moments.
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