IOWA CITY, Iowa: Jim Barnes, the head coach of the University of Iowa volleyball team, announced the addition of middle blocker Aleksandra Stojanovic and outside hitter Dominique Phills to the squad for 2024.
Originating from Pearland, Texas, Phills was a powerful attacker during her high school career. Her senior year, when she led the district in kills, earned her a spot on the first team of the all-district squad. Her hitting %, which led the district, enabled Phills to win the title of Offensive Player of the Year. Dawson High School won the district championship and advanced to the regional semifinals with Phills’ assistance. As a senior, she was selected to the 6A post-season team. In addition to being a member of the NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers), Phills was an intern in medicine.
“This fall, Dominique is a valuable addition to our pin hitters,” assistant head coach Brian Yale stated. She has developed into a self-assured and effective attacker who seeks the ball under pressure throughout the last 12 months. The great thing is that we think she can do even better. We were immediately struck by her presence and talent as a blocker early on in the process. We can’t wait to work with Dominique to help her maintain her excellent performance in the classroom, on the court, and in training.
Originally from Belgrade, Serbia, Stojanovic excelled as a champion during her senior year in high school. She also played for Serbian club teams that finished in the top ten consecutive years.
According to Barnes, “Aleksandra brings a combination of great talent and experience.” She had excellent coaching and competed at Serbia’s top level. Her quickness and capacity to strike from any spot on the net are her strongest suit. Her best ability may be blocking. Aleksandra will improve our team culture and contribute a strong work ethic. The fact that Aleksandra is a Hawkeye excites us.
On Saturday, April 20, the Hawkeyes will play scrimmages against Creighton, Quincy, and UNI in their spring season finale. The action starts inside Carver-Hawkeye Arena at 10 a.m. Free entry is offered, and doors open at 9 a.m.
