By Annie Walker
April 11, 2024
Asjia O’Neal, middle blocker for the Columbus Fury and first pick of the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation draft, has been called up to train with the U.S. Women’s National Team in preparation for Volleyball Nations League (VNL) and the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
O’Neal has played in nine matches with the Fury this season, averaging 2.65 kills while recording a .350 hitting percentage in those matches. She was named Pro Volleyball Federation Player of the Week on March 26 after a dominant effort where she totaled 30 kills over two matches. The middle blocker will now have the opportunity to represent her country at the highest possible level.
“We are excited for Asjia and her opportunity to compete for a spot on the national team roster,” explained head coach Ángel Pérez. “Every athlete’s dream is to represent their country at the highest level. We have been lucky enough to have Asjia competing with us and when she got called up for this once in a lifetime opportunity, who are we to say no to that? We wish her the best and hopefully will see more of Asjia at Nationwide Arena for many years to come.”
O’Neal made her debut with the senior national team in last summer’s VNL where the United States took fourth place. She will now begin training for the 2024 VNL with hopes to make the Olympic roster later this summer.
“This is just another example of the outstanding level of talent we have on Pro Volleyball Federation rosters,” boasted CEO Jen Spicher. “We were excited from the beginning to have Asjia as part of our League and to see her called up as an Olympic hopeful makes everyone in this league extremely proud.”
ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION
Pro Volleyball Federation is the present and future of professional volleyball in North America. The League began play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players joined by elite standouts from around the world. Our focus is on ensuring that the level and quality of play, treatment of players and the entire fan experience is world class and the best offered anywhere. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.
ABOUT THE COLUMBUS FURY
