Pepperdine women's volleyball has added Mariia Nikol Dvornikova from Moscow, Russia, to complete its 2026 recruiting class. Head Coach Scott Wong officially announced the signing, highlighting her as a 'mature young lady' with a deep passion for volleyball and a wealth of experience. She is the 20th and final freshman in the class, rounding out a strong group of six new arrivals for the upcoming season.
Mariia, pronounced Mar-ee-ah Deh-vorn-ee-koh-vuh, comes from a long line of athletes and has been competing at an elite level for years. She completed her high school education at the Private Institution of General Education in Moscow while also developing her volleyball skills. Her path to Pepperdine included notable stints with two top Russian clubs, Zarechie Odintsovo and VC Morum, where she consistently showcased her talent and competitive spirit.
Impressive Accomplishments
Dvornikova's record is packed with impressive accomplishments. In 2022, she earned a bronze at the Russian League U20, and by 2025, she had risen to a silver in the same tournament. That year, she also collected a bronze in the Russian SuperLeague and Russian Cup II, then finished with a gold at the Russian Cup U20. Most recently, she added a silver from the Russian Vischaya Liga A to her growing list of achievements, proving her consistent success over the years.
As she gets ready to join the Waves, Dvornikova shared her excitement for the team's culture. Her enthusiasm is clear with her rallying cry of 'Go Waves!'—a sign of her eagerness to contribute right away to the program.
With the 2026 season fast approaching, the team is sharpening its focus. This game offers a glimpse into the team's competitive drive and a chance to connect with fans. The regular season will officially begin on August 28 against Villanova, and that match will also mark the start of the Asics Classic at Firestone Fieldhouse.
Ticket options for the 2026 season will be available soon for fans eager to be part of the action. Flex plan options and single-game tickets are set to go on sale in the near future, with the promotional schedule expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks. This will provide supporters with multiple chances to see the Waves in one of the most exciting venues in college volleyball.
A Program with a Legacy of Success
Program's Legacy and Tradition
Pepperdine women's volleyball has built itself into one of the top programs on the West Coast. Since its early years in 1981, the Waves have made 26 NCAA Tournament appearances, showcasing the team's long-standing strength and consistency. Their success is further highlighted by 12 WCC Championship titles, a clear sign of their dominance within the conference.
Pepperdine is known for developing top-tier talent, with 21 All-American selections across six straight decades. The program's reach extends beyond college, as it has also helped athletes achieve international success. In 2020, a standout moment for the program came when Kim Hill brought home a gold medal at the Olympics, making history as the first Olympian to win for Pepperdine.
Ticket Information for 2026 Season
For fans looking to catch the Waves in action, season tickets for 2026 start at $109, with courtside seats priced at $260. These packages offer an affordable way to support the team and enjoy the high-energy environment at Firestone Fieldhouse. Those interested in ticket options or the latest news about the team should visit the official site or follow the program's social media at @PepperdineWVB.
With a strong incoming class and a proud tradition of excellence, Pepperdine women's volleyball continues to build on its legacy. Mariia Dvornikova's arrival signals the program's ongoing commitment to success as the Waves prepare to chase championships and honors in the 2026 season and beyond.