Wrigley Field has served as the venue for iconic World Series games, NFL title contests, a pair of NHL Winter Classic events, and performances by musical legends such as Paul McCartney.
For the first time ever, the Friendly Confines will host an open-air volleyball game, with Mizzou being one of the educational institutions participating in this landmark occasion.
On September 6, the Tigers are scheduled to compete against Nebraska in a nationally broadcast game on FOX, occurring during the inaugural SEC/Big Ten Volleyball Challenge Week. The matchup between MU and the Cornhuskers forms one half of a dual event, which will additionally feature Kentucky playing Penn State.
“This fall’s chance for our volleyball squad to play Nebraska under the stadium lights at Wrigley Field is truly remarkable,” stated head coach Dawn Sullivan in the Mizzou Athletics official announcement. “This experience will be something our athletes remember forever. Participating on such a significant stage, in a locale that holds deep meaning for us, heightens its memorability.”
This marks the second straight year Mizzou has been featured on national television during its regular season, with the Tigers having played Stanford in the SEC/ACC Showdown at the Net last autumn on ESPN.
In conjunction with the Big Ten challenge, MU is also set to welcome Oregon to the Hearnes Center on Tuesday, September 1.
Mizzou recently concluded a less successful season, failing to qualify for the NCAA Tournament; however, the team’s consistent achievements under Coach Sullivan and the institution’s substantial alumni presence in the Chicago region positioned it as an evident selection for the Wrigley match. Nebraska was another straightforward decision: the Huskers represent college volleyball’s most prominent name and possess a dedicated following that will probably fill the renowned stadium with a wave of red.
This prominent game offers MU a chance to enhance its national standing as the team aims to return to the tournament, boasting a skilled and youthful lineup, only two seasons after advancing to the Sweet Sixteen.
