Freshman Lynney Tarnow Bolsters Wisconsin Volleyball
The true freshman has emerged as a key middle blocker for the sixth-ranked Wisconsin volleyball team this season.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Volleyball
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True freshman Lynney Tarnow has become a breakout star for the number six ranked Wisconsin volleyball team. After arriving on campus in January 2026, she has secured a starting role as a middle blocker throughout the current season.
Why it matters
Tarnow successfully filled a critical roster void left by graduating seniors, providing immediate stability at the middle blocker position. Her rapid transition to the college level has been essential in maintaining the competitive standing of the team.
Tarnow has started 17 of 18 matches this season while recording 71 total blocks. She also achieved a career-high 16 kills while hitting .429 in a single match against Florida.
The players
Lynney Tarnow
She is a true freshman middle blocker for the Wisconsin volleyball team who hails from Downers Grove, Illinois.
Jaela Auguste
She is a Wisconsin volleyball player who was sidelined during the 2026 season due to an abdominal strain.
The details
Tarnow stepped into the starting M1 position following an abdominal strain suffered by teammate Jaela Auguste in September 2026. She has appeared in 64 of 67 total sets played by the team, proving to be a versatile force at the net after years of attending local camps.
Timeline
Tarnow began attending Wisconsin volleyball camps in 2016.
Tarnow officially arrived on campus in January 2026.
Jaela Auguste was sidelined by an abdominal strain in September 2026.
Tarnow has started 17 of 18 matches during the 2026 season.
Season Trajectory
Tarnow's emergence allows the program to maintain its national ranking despite the departure of key veteran starters. Her ability to anchor the middle of the net keeps the team competitive in the race for a high tournament seed.
Tarnow holds a .349 hitting percentage, marking her as a high-efficiency target for setters in the team's offense. Her high volume of blocks significantly strengthens the team's defensive net presence in critical match scenarios.
The takeaway
Tarnow demonstrates how early exposure to university training camps can facilitate a seamless transition to the Division I level. Her performance highlights the importance of depth and adaptability when unexpected injuries occur mid-season.
Further reading
For more on local collegiate sports, visit Volleyball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Journal Sentinel.
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