BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - As the Cal State Bakersfield volleyball team gears up for the 2024 season, the spotlight will be on their dynamic setters. Senior Ella Erteltova brings invaluable experience and leadership, while sophomore Nene Hawkins combines youthful enthusiasm with strategic insight. Freshman Vivianna Samaniego adds fresh energy and potential to the position. Together, they are set to orchestrate the offense and drive the team's success.
Freshman setter Vivianna Samaniego joins the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners with an impressive high school and club volleyball career. A 2024 graduate from Northwest Christian High School in Phoenix, Ariz., Samaniego made a significant impact on the court, earning Team MVP honors and being named the 3A Offensive Player of the Year during her sophomore season. Her talent continued to shine as she was awarded 3A Player of the Year in 2023. In the club arena, Samaniego made the USAV All-Tournament Team in the National Division in 2024 and played a crucial role in her team's victory at the USAV National Championship. She also helped her club team win the National Division Championship her senior year and secure a bronze medal in the USA Division during her junior season. Academically, Samaniego was a member of the National Honor Society, served as Senior Class Secretary on the student council, and consistently made the Honor Roll and Principal's List. She is majoring in Kinesiology at CSUB and aspires to become a Physician's Assistant or a Sports Medicine Physician. She brings a blend of athletic prowess and academic excellence to the Roadrunners.
As a returning setter for the Cal State Bakersfield Roadrunners, sophomore Nene Hawkins is set to make a significant impact in the 2024 season. Hawkins had an impressive freshman year, playing in 30 matches and starting in 17. She ranked fifth in The Big West with 777 assists and sixth with a 6.88 assist average, setting a new CSUB Division I freshman record for season assists. Her all-around performance was notable, leading the team in assists and ranking third in digs with 232. Hawkins consistently delivered, recording double-digit assists in every match and posting standout performances such as a season-high 48 assists and 11 digs against Saint Mary's, and 14 digs in matches against Air Force and UC Irvine. With her proven skill set and experience, Hawkins is poised to be a cornerstone of the `Runners' offense this season.
Senior Ella Erteltova is a key returning setter for CSUB, bringing both experience and versatility to the 2024 season. Last year, Erteltova played in 28 matches, starting in 14, and was an important part of the team's success. She ranked second on the team with 271 assists, averaging 3.08 per set, and fourth in digs with 169, averaging 1.92 per set. Her ability to contribute both offensively and defensively was evident as she recorded double-digit assists in 13 matches. Notable performances included a season-high 21 assists and 15 digs against Fresno State, and 29 assists with 10 digs against UC Irvine. In addition to her on-court contributions, Erteltova earned Academic All-Conference honors, showcasing her dedication both in the classroom and on the court. Her leadership and well-rounded skills will be pivotal as she continues to drive the Roadrunners' offense this season.
Together, Hawkins, Erteltova, and Samaniego represent a formidable trio of setters ready to lead Bakersfield to success in the upcoming season.
