{
  "id": 9550564,
  "title": "Arizona State volleyball maintains culture despite roster turnover",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/arizona-state-volleyball-maintains-culture-despite-roster-turnover",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-24T12:03:38.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/arizona-state-volleyball-maintains-culture-120338138.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Arizona State's volleyball team has managed to maintain its winning culture despite frequent roster changes. Freshman Antonina \"Tosia\" Serafinowska, who entered the transfer portal from Wisconsin, chose Arizona State because she felt a strong connection with head coach JJ Van Niel and the team's emphasis on being a well-rounded athlete, student, and person. Van Niel values a team-first mentality and having players who are motivated to be their best selves. Year to date, ASU has won two consecutive Big 12 championships, and now with a mix of transfers and freshmen, they are favored to win a third straight title. However, the team's success isn't just about adding talent; it's about upholding a specific culture. Recruiters at ASU are selective, looking for players who fit the team's values and standards. Serafinowska had to adjust her mindset from being independent to understanding that volleyball is a team sport. Returning players, like Zoey Burgess, who transferred in from Kansas, play a crucial role in reinforcing this culture and helping new players feel welcomed. The team has a culture committee that organizes non-volleyball related activities to strengthen team bonds. By valuing each player's unique background and personality, ASU is able to create a cohesive unit that supports one another.",
  "summary": "The transfer portal has Arizona State volleyball staying creative and diligent in building culture.",
  "key_points": [
    "Arizona State volleyball maintains culture amid roster turnover.",
    "Freshman Antonina Tosia Serafinowska chose team for coach and values.",
    "Team's success stems from upholding specific culture and values."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}