GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – After a promising rookie campaign, 6-foot-2 opposite hitter Lauren Jardine-Clark (jar-DEEN) has signed with the Grand Rapids Rise for the 2026 Major League Volleyball season. Jardine-Clark’s performance last year highlighted her athleticism and ability to contribute in multiple ways on the court.
“Lauren is a phenomenal athlete with the versatility to excel both on both pin positions,” said Rise head coach and VP of volleyball operations Cathy George. “She loves volleyball. She is eager to learn and committed to growing every day. Lauren showed continuous improvement throughout her first year with the Vegas Thrill. We’re excited to see her build on that foundation and become an even more dynamic force this upcoming season.”
Jardine-Clark, a native of Highland, Utah, appeared in 27 matches (74 sets) last season, contributing 114 kills with a .184 hitting percentage, along with seven aces, 30 blocks, and 76 digs. She recorded a season-high 21 kills against the San Diego Mojo on April 19, adding 10 digs and five blocks in a standout all-around performance. Jardine-Clark made a strong impression in her professional debut, posting 13 kills, 11 digs, and one block in a 3-2 victory over the Rise on Jan. 10. She was selected 35th overall by Vegas in the fifth round of the 2024 collegiate draft.
A product of the University of Utah (2022-24) and the University of Wisconsin (2021), Jardine-Clark was a member of the Badgers’ 2021 NCAA National Championship team. During her senior season at Utah, Jardine-Clark posted 261 kills with an average of 2.84 kills per set and a .266 hitting percentage.
Jardine-Clark’s decorated high school career included being named a 2020 Under Armour First Team All-American, the 2020 Utah Gatorade Player of the Year, and USA Today’s Player of the Year for the state of Utah. She was also honored as the 2020 Deseret News Ms. Volleyball after leading Lone Peak High School to the 6A State Championship.
Additional roster announcements will be made throughout the free agency window as the Rise prepare for their third season, starting January 2026.
ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE VOLLEYBALL
Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.
ABOUT THE GRAND RAPIDS RISE
The Grand Rapids Rise made their debut in January 2024 and will play their third season in 2026 as members of Major League Volleyball. Led by longtime Michigan State and Western Michigan head coach Cathy George, the Rise reached the championship match during their inaugural season and rank among the top U.S. women’s pro volleyball teams in attendance. The team is operated by DP Fox Sports & Entertainment and owned by Dan DeVos, who is also majority owner and CEO of the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins and minority owner of West Michigan Soccer, which will begin play in MLS NEXT Pro in 2027. Visit grrise.com for more information.
Photo by Bonnie Ryan/Omaha Supernovas