CEDAR CITY, Utah - The engine of any offense runs through the setter, and Southern Utah enters the 2025 season with a very experienced and talented group. Led by veteran floor general Teniyah Leuluai, alongside newcomer Asya Akbulut and freshman standout Swayzee Mason, the Thunderbirds have depth, leadership, and versatility at the position.
Head Coach Danielle Jensen Said
"Our setters are the heartbeat of this team. Teniyah brings the leadership and consistency we can always rely on, Asya adds a creative dimension with her international experience, and Swayzee has that competitive fire you love to see in a young player. With this group, we feel confident in running a balanced, dynamic offense."
Leuluai Leads the Way
Senior Teniyah Leuluai returns as the Thunderbirds' primary setter after a breakout 2024 season. She appeared in all 27 matches, piling up 872 assists while averaging 8.63 per set, ranking among the WAC's top distributors. Leuluai also proved her all-around game by recording 11 double-digit dig matches, posting a career-high 52 assists against Abilene Christian and adding a well-rounded effort with 14 digs and 5.0 blocks at Tarleton State. Her leadership, consistency, and ability to spark the offense will once again anchor SUU's attack.
Akbulut Brings International Experience
Joining the Thunderbirds from Ankara, Turkey, junior transfer Asya Akbulut arrives after two strong seasons at Eastern Arizona College. She dished out 671 assists last fall while showing versatility with 261 digs and 55 service aces, ranking among her team's top servers. At 5-11, Akbulut brings size, balance, and a strong serve to the setter position, giving SUU another proven option to drive the offense.
Mason Represents the Future
Freshman Swayzee Mason enters with an impressive prep résumé, having been named the Utah 2A Player of the Year after leading North Sevier to a state championship in 2024. Known for her competitive edge and all-around skill set, Mason averaged 9.2 assists, 2.1 digs, and 1.1 blocks per set in her senior season. She represents the next wave of talent for the Thunderbirds and will have the opportunity to learn behind two veteran setters as she transitions to the college game.
Thunderbirds' Outlook
With Leuluai's experience, Akbulut's international flair, and Mason's championship pedigree, Southern Utah's setter group is both deep and dynamic. The trio gives the Thunderbirds flexibility in running their offense, with the ability to play fast, distribute evenly, and pressure opponents with aggressive serving and back-row defense.
As the Thunderbirds look to climb the WAC standings in 2025, their offense will once again start with a steady hand at setter, where SUU has multiple options ready to deliver.
Tickets
Tickets are on sale now! The home opener is set for the second week of the season when the T-Birds host a tournament September 4-6. Get your tickets today by visiting tbirdtickets.com!
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