Wisconsin Badgers Test True Freshman at Unexpected Position

Lynney Tarnow plays right-side hitter in spring match against Green Bay

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:19pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a volleyball match, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives conveying the sport's intensity and movement.A cubist interpretation of a Wisconsin Badgers volleyball match, capturing the dynamic energy and strategic complexity of the game.Green Bay Today

In a spring match against Green Bay, Wisconsin Badgers head coach Kelly Sheffield experimented by having true freshman Lynney Tarnow, who is primarily a middle blocker, play right-side hitter. Tarnow excelled in the role, recording 5 kills in the 3 sets played before the match was decided.

Why it matters

With injuries and absences leaving the Badgers thin at the right-side hitter position, Sheffield had to get creative in finding a solution. Tarnow's performance shows the coaching staff's willingness to test players in different roles, which could pay dividends during the regular season.

The details

In the first set, Tarnow started as the right-side hitter for the Badgers. She continued to play that position at various points throughout the match, despite it not being her natural position as a middle blocker. Tarnow excelled in the role, recording 5 kills in the 3 sets played before the match was decided.

  • The match against Green Bay took place on April 18, 2026.

The players

Kelly Sheffield

Head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers volleyball team.

Lynney Tarnow

A true freshman on the Wisconsin Badgers volleyball team, primarily a middle blocker who was tested at the right-side hitter position in the match against Green Bay.

Grace Lopez

A Wisconsin Badgers player who was not available for the match against Green Bay, likely due to an injury that has been taking time to fully heal.

Grace Egan

A Wisconsin Badgers player who was also not available for the match against Green Bay.

Kymora Scott

The only right-side hitter remaining on the Wisconsin Badgers roster, who may need more development time at the position.

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What they’re saying

“Lynney Tarnow found some playing time at RS Hitter for Wisconsin”

— Chris Fitzgerald, Prep Dig

What’s next

The Badgers will continue to evaluate their lineup options and player versatility as they prepare for the upcoming regular season.

The takeaway

Wisconsin's coaching staff is demonstrating a willingness to experiment with player positions and roles, even with true freshmen, in order to find the best solutions for the team's needs. Tarnow's successful performance at right-side hitter shows the depth of talent on the Badgers roster.