IRVINE, Calif. – UC Irvine head women's volleyball coach Ashlie Hain has announced transfer Katelyn Smith and freshman Ava Gronemeyer will be joining the Anteaters in 2024.

Katelyn Smith /Outside Hitter / 6-3 /Grad / Laguna Niguel, Calif. /Aliso Niguel HS / USC
Smith will graduate from USC in three years and transfer to UCI to earn a Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship…She played in 49 sets last season at Southern Califonia, averaging 1.51 kills per set…also totaled 21 digs, 16 total blocks and five aces…She was a member of the Trojan teams that advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament the last two years…She earned Pac-12 Academic Honor Roll…Prepped at Aliso Viejo High School where she was a three-time All-South Coast League selection…PrepVolleyball.com's 11^th-ranked recruit…Played for Tstreet Volleyball Club…2020 US Women's Junior National Training Team.

"We are so excited to welcome Katie as the newest Anteater. She brings experience at the highest level and will make an immediate impact. She is not only a talented volleyball player but an outstanding person that will add value on and off the court."

Ava Gronemeyer / Outside Hitter / 6-2 / Fr. / Malibu, Calif. /Viewpoint HS
Gronemeyer played both indoor and Beach at Viewpoint High School…She earned All-Gold Coast League honors twice, including first-team…Honored as team MVP three years as well as named Most Improved player…Played for Actyve Volleyball Club from 14s-17s and Sunshine Volleyball Club for 18s.

"Ava has experience on one of the top club teams in the country at Sunshine Volleyball Club. She's passionate about being an Anteater and representing UCI Volleyball. Her work ethic and natural talent will make our gym that much more competitive this off season."