It’s been a true exchange of ideas about how athletics and academics fit together since Arizona volleyball began bringing in more international players. It began almost four years ago when former head coach Dave Rubio brought in then-freshman Sofia Maldonado Diaz and transfers Merle Weidt and Dilara Gedikoglu. He called them “refreshing.” New head coach Rita Stubbs has continued it this season with the addition of Italian libero Giorgia Mandotti.
“I love the idea of a kid that can come in and have had experience,” Stubbs said.