Illinois alums Poulter, Bartsch-Hackley make U.S. Olympic Team

When the 2020 Olympics go off in Tokyo later this summer (in 2021), two Illinois Volleyball all-time greats will be representing Team USA.

Alums Jordyn Poulter and Michelle Bartsch-Hackley were named to the 12-women team that will compete for the United State later this summer.

Eight of the 12 players on the team are first-time Olympians.

Bartsch-Hackley, an outside hitter, is a native of Collinsville. She finished her Illini career in 2011 when they lost to UCLA in the national championship.

Poulter, 23, is the younger player on the team. The setter finished her career in Orange and Blue as a two-time All-American and was named Big Ten Setter of the Year during her senior season, which featured a Final Four appearance.

“We’re extremely grateful for the extra time that the Olympic postponement provided,” U.S. Head Coach Karch Kiraly said in a statement. “Our core group of 23 Women’s National Teamers has done amazing work in the last 14 months, setting us up for phenomenal trust, connection, purpose and performance.

The U.S. National Team is ranked No. 1 in the world and a favorite to take home the gold.

Let’s make it happen!