Columbus Fury prepare for first nationally televised game, Asjia O'Neal selected for national team duty
There is perhaps no greater honor in sport than being called to represent your nation in international competition. For Asija O'Neal, she received that honor on Thursday. The Columbus Fury middle blocker and first overall pick in the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation draft received a call-up to train with the United States Women's National Volleyball Team in preparation for the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) and the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
O'Neal made her debut during last summer's VNL competion where the United States took fourth place. She heads into training camp looking to improve on that performance and hopes to claim a spot on the Olympic roster later this summer when the team travels to Paris, France.
She has featured for the Fury in nine contests, averaging 2.65 kills while recording a .350 hitting percentage in those matches. O'Neal captured Player of the Week honors during the week of March 26th after a great week in which she amassed 30 kills over two matches. She looks to take those skills to the national team where she will compete on 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.”
Fury to play first nationally televised game on CBS Sports Network
Professional volleyball continues to solidify its positioning within the American sports landscape. The PVF announced a partnership with CBS Sports Network earlier this year in which they would broadcast seven matches across the airwaves.
Columbus and San Diego become the second nationally broadcast match up when they meet Friday evening.
Central Ohio has no trouble turning up for its sports teams and the Fury is no different, but to incentivize people who might be on the fence, the team is offering a variety of ticket promotions, even incorporating a "college night" special to lure new fans into the stands.
Fury outside hitter and Kansas Jaywawk standout Reagan Cooper has a message for fans that might be on the fence about coming out.
“I think we are a very fun team to watch," she said. "I think you can see the passion in our faces in the way we compete on the court.”
Columbus libero Valeria León sees the Pro Volleyball Federation being part of the sports revolution being created by the likes of college basketball starts such as Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and others.
“It’s a great time for women’s sports and professional sports in general," León said. "Not just for the sport of volleyball but also college basketball and everything that has been happening with women and I think it’s a great time to be a professional volleyball player here in the United States.”
You can catch the Fury tonight when they battle the San Diego Mojo. First serve is schedule for 7:03 pm inside Nationwide Arena.