By Annie Walker
4 18 2025
With just five matches left in the regular season, the Valkyries are looking to become the third team to punch their ticket to Vegas, joining Omaha and Atlanta. Orlando will be looking to bounce back after getting swept by Atlanta as they go on the road on Friday to face the Columbus Fury, starting at 7:00 PM ET.
CLINCHING SCENARIO:
Here is the scenario for the Valkyries to clinch a playoff spot:
- Orlando beats Columbus AND Grand Rapids loses to Omaha
Key to the Match for Orlando:
Controlling the Pins: In Columbus’ sweep over Vegas, their pins combined for 25 kills on a .449 hitting efficiency. Orlando will need to execute to come ready to execute a plan on slowing down Izabella Rapacz, who has nine matches of 15 or more kills this season, including 15 kills on a .520 efficiency against Vegas on April 13.
Valkyries Players to Watch:
Kaz Brown (Middle Blocker): Over the last month, Brown has been nothing short of spectacular, posting an average of 9.7 kills and 3.1 blocks per match. She had a career night against Grand Rapids where she posted 20 points on 12 kills, as well as tying a career-high with six blocks.
Lindsey Vander Weide (Outside Hitter): In the last meeting against Columbus, Vander Weide could not be stopped, hitting 15 kills on a .310 hitting efficiency. She also secured her first double-double of the season as she grabbed 11 digs as well.
By the numbers: The Valkyries are 8-5 when posting over 50 assists in a match.
Fury Players to Watch:
Izabella Rapacz (Opposite Hitter): Leading the team in kills (262) and kills per set (3.64), Rapacz has been the go-to option for Columbus as of late. In two matchups vs. Orlando, Rapacz has recorded more than 15 kills in both meetings. Keeping an eye on her throughout the match, will be a key storyline in how the match will unfold.
Nootsara Tomkom (Setter): A 16-year pro from Ratchaburi, Thailand, Tomkom was signed by Columbus on March 22. Since joining Columbus, the Fury have gained big wins over Indy and Vegas, where Tomkom played a huge role in helping the team hit at a .330 efficiency clip
By the numbers: Columbus is 3-3 when recording more than five service aces
ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION
Pro Volleyball Federation is the leading professional volleyball league in the United States. PVF sets the standard for the sport, offering the largest number of franchises, unmatched attendance, extensive broadcast coverage and substantial championship prize money. It combines top-tier talent, including NCAA stars and international athletes, with cutting-edge production and technology to provide fans with an unmatched viewing experience. As a vital link between collegiate volleyball and the professional stage, PVF is dedicated to shaping the future of the sport and increasing visibility for its athletes. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.
ABOUT ORLANDO VALKYRIES
The Orlando Valkyries are a proud member team in the Pro Volleyball Federation — the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. The Valkyries, which began play in January 2024, enter their second season in the league and will once again play out of Addition Financial Arena, located in the heart of the University of Central Florida campus. Season Tickets are on sale now. For more information on how to get all tickets, email [email protected], click on OrlandoValkyries.com, visit the Addition Financial Arena box office or go to the Ticketmaster website: Ticketmaster.com. Fans can follow the team on Facebook or via X, Instagram and TikTok — @ORLValkyries or visit OrlandoValkyries.com.
* Orlando Valkyries, Pro Volleyball, DIG IT! *
COURTESY ORLANDO VALKYRIES COMMUNICATIONS
