As the sports arena buzzes with football, TCU's women's sports teams are quietly making their mark. These teams are not only achieving remarkable success but are also leaving an indelible mark in the TCU record books.

TCU's Women's Sports - A Renaissance of Success

Women's Basketball: Rising to the Top

TCU's women's basketball team is one of the hottest in college basketball. Recently ranked No. 9 in the Associated Press Top 25 Poll, it has had an impressive start to the 2024-2025 season. Early-season wins, including the victory over No. 3 Notre Dame, showcase the upward trajectory under coach Mark Campbell. The team was once struggling but has now infused new talent through transfers. Sedona Prince and Madison Conner were key additions, helping the Frogs reach the top 25. However, a rash of injuries took a toll. But after adding more players from the transfer portal, like Hailey Van Lith from Louisiana State University and Maddie Scherr from the University of Kentucky, the team is ready to face any challenges. Van Lith's arrival brought her significant Instagram following and a stamp of approval that TCU is an elite program.This success is not just about rankings. It's about the passion and dedication of the players and coaches. The team is playing an up-tempo brand of basketball that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.

Rifle and Equestrian: National Champions and Runners-Up

TCU Rifle is the reigning national champion, while the Equestrian team was the national runner-up. These achievements highlight the diverse range of sports at TCU and the talent of the student-athletes. The Rifle team's success is a testament to their hard work and training, while the Equestrian team's performance shows their skill and teamwork.Both teams have played a crucial role in the renaissance of women's sports at TCU, inspiring other teams to strive for excellence.

Soccer and Volleyball: NCAA Tournament Contenders

TCU Soccer just completed play in the NCAA Tournament after winning the Big 12 Conference regular-season title. The team's success is a result of the coaching of Eric Bell, who has built the Frogs into a perennial contender in the Big 12.TCU Volleyball also had a successful season, cracking the Top 25 for the first time in program history and qualifying for a third straight trip to the NCAA Tournament. With the help of the transfer portal and talented players like Melanie Parra, the team is continuing to rise.These two sports teams have shown that TCU is a force to be reckoned with in NCAA Tournament play.

Beach Volleyball: Rising to No. 1

TCU Beach Volleyball could open its season in the spring ranked No. 1 in the country. Coach Hector Gutierrez has traveled the world to piece together the Frogs' roster, finding All-Americans like Daniela Alvarez and Tania Moreno in Spain and Lina Khmil in Ukraine.Recruiting in beach volleyball is not cheap, but Gutierrez has always managed to put together a competitive roster. With players from across the world, TCU is one of the best teams in the country.

Other Sports: Making Their Mark

Triathlon finished sixth in its debut season and placed fourth this year. Cross country had its most successful season with three first-place finishes. Women's tennis doubles team of Jade Otway and Isabel Pascual were the first Horned Frogs to reach the NCAA tournament quarterfinals since 2007 and the first duo in 17 years to be named All-Americans.These achievements show the depth and talent of TCU's women's sports programs. Together, they are leading a renaissance of women's sports at TCU.

The Role of Athletics Leadership

Overseeing athletics is Jeremiah Donati, who has made difficult decisions to jump-start women's basketball and volleyball. He and his predecessors have shown patience with coaches as programs were trying to gain traction.Donati is the common thread in the success of women's programs. His leadership and support have been crucial in attracting good coaches and providing the resources needed for success.Coach Mark Campbell also credits Donati for putting everything together and giving him the opportunity to come to TCU.

Support and Campus Life

The campus itself sells itself, from the construction that has taken place over the past two decades to the immaculate landscaping to the nationally recognized degree programs. This support helps attract prospective student-athletes to Fort Worth.Angie Larkin-Ravaioli, the longest-tenured coach at TCU, emphasizes the importance of culture in building a winning team. She focuses on core values and creating a supportive environment for players.Teams still need quality coaches and ample support, and TCU has both.

Looking Ahead

The result is a renaissance in not just women's basketball at TCU, but all women's sports. With so much talent and potential, the future looks bright for TCU's women's sports teams.Catch the TCU Women’s Basketball Team at Dickies Arena Dec. 8. Faculty and staff can purchase discount tickets through Ticketmaster and a special offer is available for Student Frog Club members while available.