Hawaii’s beach volleyball team advances to Big West semifinals

The Hawaii beach volleyball team is making waves in the Big West Championship with their impressive performance in the new format. Ranked 11th, the Rainbow Wahine dominated in pool play on Thursday, defeating Cal State Bakersfield 5-0 and reigning champion Long Beach State 4-1.

The Big West Championship format was changed this year to include pool play on the first day followed by a single-elimination bracket on the second day. UH emerged victorious in Pool A and is set to face either UC Davis or Cal State Bakersfield in the semifinals on Friday.

Senior Kaylee Glagau made history by becoming the third Rainbow Wahine beach player to reach 100 career wins in dual matches, joining the ranks of Ari Homayun and Emily Maglio. Glagau achieved this milestone with partner Pani Napoleon, who also contributed to the team’s success.

With four pairs sweeping their matches on the day, including Jamie Santer/Alana Embry, Riley Wagoner/Sydney Amiatu, and Sarah Burton/Caprice Lorenzo, the Rainbow Wahine are proving to be a force to be reckoned with in the championship.

Despite Sacramento State being knocked out of the competition, six other teams remain in the running for the championship title. The winner of the championship match will secure an automatic berth to the NCAA Tournament in Gulf Shores, Ala.

UH has a strong history in the Big West Championship, winning the first three titles from 2016 to 2018. With their current performance, the Rainbow Wahine are determined to reclaim their championship status.