Cards in the Pros: Louisville’s Impact on the Professional Volleyball World

This past week, Head Coach Dan Meske highlighted “Cards in the Pros” on his Instagram—and as fans, we just couldn’t not join in and shine some extra light on the incredible pro presence of former Louisville greats. Whether it’s domestic leagues like LOVB and Real Pro Volleyball or international teams across Europe, it’s clear: Louisville is a pipeline for professional success.

Here's the roll call of Cards making waves in the pro game:

• Claire Chaussee – LOVB Madison
• Anna Stevenson Hall – LOVB Madison
• Aiko Jones – Real Pro Atlanta
• Tori Dilfer – Real Pro Columbus
• Wilma Rivera – Real Pro Columbus
• Elena Scott – Real Pro Indy
• Anna DeBeer – Real Pro Indy
• Charitie Luper – Real Pro Las Vegas
• Raquel Lazaro – Béziers Angels (France)
• Sofi Maldonado – CSO Voluntari (Romania)
• Brigitta Petrenko – VC Kanti Schaffhausen (Switzerland)

A Closer Look at the Numbers & Trends:

• 11 players currently competing professionally
• 8 are in U.S.-based leagues
• 5 of those are part of Real Pro Volleyball, now in its second season
• Indy Ignite, home to Elena Scott and Anna DeBeer, is in its first season within the Real Pro league
• 2 are part of LOVB (League One Volleyball), which is officially in its inaugural season
• 3 Cards are competing internationally across Europe—in France, Romania, and Switzerland
• At least 6 of these players have graduated in the last three years, signaling just how quickly Louisville talent is transitioning to the next level

The Bigger Picture: Volleyball Is Booming

The explosion of U.S.-based pro leagues has totally changed the game for college stars. In the past, graduating athletes often had to head overseas to chase their professional dreams. Now, with Real Pro Volleyball entering year two and LOVB officially launching this season, elite NCAA players can stay stateside, grow the sport here, and play in front of U.S. fans.

And Louisville? They've been ready. With a steady pipeline of elite-level talent, seasoned coaching, and deep NCAA tournament runs, it’s no surprise the Cards are dominating the pro circuit.

What It Means for Future Cards

Louisville isn’t just a powerhouse in the college game—they’re setting the standard for what’s next. Recruits looking to compete at the highest level are seeing proof: if you put in the work here, the path doesn’t end after college. It’s only just beginning.

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*Photo Credit: NCAA.com