Stephens Volleyball Closes Regular Season on a High Note, Heads to Postseason Play
After celebrating Senior Night, the Stars look to carry their record-breaking momentum into the playoffs.
The Stephens College Stars Volleyball team’s regular season has officially wrapped, but the story is far from over. The team capped off a record-breaking 2025 season with a 24-12 season overall record and a dominant 16-2 conference finish, earning their place in the postseason tournament at the Bradley Beal Center in Chesterfield, Missouri, where they will face off against #7 Harris-Stowe State University in the opening round.
The team wrapped up regular season play with last week’s senior night, which was both a celebration and a farewell – a moment to honor the leaders who helped shape this season’s success. For head coach Maggie Hans, the night was a powerful reflection on how far the program has come.
“It’s honestly bittersweet,” Hans said. “You pour so much into them over the years, not just in volleyball but in life, so to see them step into this next chapter is emotional. I’m so proud of who they’ve become, both on and off the court. They’ve left their fingerprints all over this program and set a standard for what it means to be a Star.”
That standard has been backed up by hard numbers – and history being made. Four players etched their names into the Stephens record books this season.
- Emma Whitson: 1,196 assists – single-season record
- Lena Hunziker: 400 kills – single-season record
- Jatnna Peña-Perez: 569 digs – single-season record
- Fernanda Izar: 73 block assists – single-season record
For the team, this success is the result of dedication, unity and belief in something bigger than themselves.
“It’s an incredible feeling and a true testament to the work these women have put in all season,” said Hans. “They’ve overcome adversity, trusted the process and bought into our culture. To see them earn a spot in the playoffs – and make program history in the process – makes me so proud as a coach. They deserve it.” Among those leading the charge is Senior Jatnna Peña-Perez, who reflected on a season full of growth and unforgettable memories.
“My favorite memory from this season has to be when we beat Columbia [College],” said Peña-Perez. “That whole day felt like a movie – the energy, the teamwork, everything came together perfectly. But honestly, every single day this season has taught me something and helped me grow, both as a player and a person.”
At the heart of the Stars’ success is their team mantra: “Be Present.”
“It’s such a simple idea,” said Peña-Perez, “but it means so much. I’ve learned to truly be in the moment whether it’s on the court, with my teammate, or spending time with my family and friends.”
As they prepare for postseason, the stars remain grounded in their guiding philosophy – “For HER.”
“It’s about playing for something bigger than yourself – for your teammates, for the women who came before you, for the young girls watching, and for your younger self who once dreamed of being here,” said Hans. “Wins and losses fade, but the relationships, growth and the impact they’ve made will always last.”
With the regular season behind them and the postseason ahead, the Stephens Stars are ready to write the next chapter of their story – one defined by resilience, record-breaking performances and the unwavering spirit of what it means to be a Star.
Friday’s postseason playoff game starts at 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, and can be streamed here.
