Former Ankeny Centennial volleyball standout Olivia Anderson has found a new home.
And it’s one that her parents, Taylor and Holly, know quite well.
Anderson has transferred from the University of St. Thomas (Minn.) to Wartburg College in Waverly.
“Both my parents actually went there and played sports as well so that is a cool connection,” said Anderson. “I’m excited to use this opportunity to better be able to accomplish my goals both on and off the court.”
Anderson committed to St. Thomas during her senior year at Centennial in the fall of 2021. The next day, she suffered a season-ending knee injury during the Jaguars’ win at Ankeny.
Anderson, who was tied for the team lead in kills with 125 at the time, was later named to the CIML Iowa Conference first team for the second straight year–even though she never returned to the court.
Anderson then joined St. Thomas, which became the first athletic program in the NCAA modern era to reclassify directly from Division III to Division I. She did not play last season as the Tommies struggled to a 4-26 record.
“I loved St. Thomas and really enjoyed my time, relationships made and experiences I had up there, but I wanted to have the opportunity to play a bigger role,” Anderson said. “I am looking forward to that opportunity at Wartburg!”
Anderson entered the transfer portal in the spring and decided early in the summer to make the move to the NCAA Division III level.
“They have a strong, successful program at Wartburg with great coaches,” Anderson said. “I am super excited for the new opportunity to be a leader at Wartburg!”