GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Grand Rapids Rise had outside hitter Kenna Sauer claimed off their practice squad Tuesday and added to the Vegas Thrill’s active roster.
Sauer was selected as the 18th overall pick in the third round of the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation draft held in December. The Ankeny, Iowa, native played for three different colleges during her five-year collegiate career: Houston (2023), Texas Tech (2021-22) and Missouri (2019-21). In 112 college matches, Sauer accumulated 1,233 kills, 900 digs, 197 blocks, and 73 aces. Sauer was a three-time All-Big 12 First Team selection and was named a 2023 AVCA Third Team All-American.
Sauer becomes the first player in Pro Volleyball Federation history to be claimed off a team’s practice squad. She joins a 1-1 overall Vegas team currently preparing to play the Omaha Supernovas in their inaugural home-opener on Thursday.
The Rise are back in action at 4 p.m. this Sunday, Feb. 18, at Van Andel Arena against the Atlanta Vibe.
ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION
Pro Volleyball Federation is REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation began play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our focus is on ensuring that the level and quality of play, treatment of players, quality of event presentations, and day-to-day fan experience is world class and the very best offered in North America. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.
ABOUT THE GRAND RAPIDS RISE
Founded in December 2022 as the first Pro Volleyball Federation franchise, the Grand Rapids Rise made their debut at Van Andel Arena on Jan. 25, 2024. Led by longtime Michigan State and Western Michigan head coach Cathy George, the Rise’s 14-player roster will play 24 games (12 home, 12 away) during their inaugural season. The team is operated by DP Fox Sports & Entertainment and owned by Dan DeVos, who is also co-owner and CEO of the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins. Visit grrise.com for the schedule and to purchase tickets.
Photo by Macy Mineni