DENVER – The University of Denver volleyball program has signed four athletes to join the program beginning in 2026, coach Megan Pendergast announced on Wednesday.
Romi Chlebecek – Lakeville, Minnesota – Outside Hitter – 5’11
“We are thrilled to add Romi Chlebecek to our program,” Pendergast said. “She brings elite offensive abilities and a dynamic presence to the court. Romi is the type of athlete who will continue to grow and develop, and we believe her best volleyball is still ahead of her. She has all the tools to make a significant impact at the next level.”
BEFORE DENVER
Recorded over 1500 kills, 500 digs and 100 blocks in her high school career … two-time Minnesota state champion … led her team to a second place finish at USAV and third place finish at AAU … a thee-time all-conference selection … two-time all-state selection … 2025 Star Tribune All Metro and All Star team selection.
PERSONAL
Enjoys watching movies, baking, playing board games, coloring, shopping, traveling and spending time with friends … an active member of her community through National Honor Society, Link Crew and Key Club … chose the University of Denver because of the welcoming atmosphere and the location.
Lily Van Hal – Chester, South Dakota – Setter – 5’7
“Lily Van Hal will be joining us early in January, and she’s an incredible addition to our program,” Pendergast said. “Her competitiveness, her ability to run an offense with confidence, and the way she elevates the people around her make her a perfect fit for Pio Volleyball.”
BEFORE DENVER
A two-time South Dakota state champion … AAU and USAV National Championship … led South Dakota in aces for three consecutive seasons … high school leader in assists, aces and kills … four-time Class B First-Team all-state selection … five-time first-team all-conference selection.
PERSONAL
Enjoys traveling, reading and spending time with family and friends … active member of the choir and band … a member of honor society and spends time volunteering at her church and in the community … chose Denver because of the academic reputation, welcoming atmosphere and opportunity to grow as an athlete.
Abby Conklin – St. Michael, Minnesota – Middle Blocker – 6’3
“Abigail Conklin brings tremendous size, presence, and potential to our program,” Pendergast said. “She’s made remarkable strides over the last few years of high school, and her growth trajectory is exciting. Her ceiling is incredibly high, and we can’t wait to continue developing her into a dominant force at the next level.”
BEFORE DENVER
Led her team to a second-place finish at USAV Nationals and third-place finish at AAU Nationals … a two-time all-conference selection and all-state selection.
PERSONAL
Enjoys baking, reading, coaching and hiking … member of National Honor Society, FCA and Letters of Love … chose Denver because of the team culture, coaching staff and location
Katelyn Landis – Winter Garden, Florida – Middle Blocker – 6’2
“Katelyn Landis comes to us with elite club experience and a drive to be great that truly sets her apart,” Pendergast said. “She has an incredible court presence, brings energy and maturity to every play, and will make an immediate impact in our middle position. We’re thrilled to have her join the Pios.”
BEFORE DENVER
Led her team to back-to-back district championships … named to the All-Metro team … led her club team to an AAU National Championship … finished the season as the top team in Florida and number three team in the nation.
PERSONAL
Enjoys pickleball, baking and volunteering … an active member of her community I student government, National Honor Society and FCA … chose Denver because it provided everything she was looking forward to in a university from campus and class size to team culture and coaching staff.
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