DAVIS, Calif. - Olivia Utterback, a recent graduate, is the most recent UC Davis volleyball Aggie to reap the rewards of what has become a program that produces professional players. Allowing for Utterback and other Aggies to achieve the goal of playing professionally following their time in Davis.

Utterback, a four-time All-Big West player who graduated from UC Davis this past June, didn't even want to play professional volleyball following her final game in the blue and gold. "I thought that five years of collegiate volleyball was enough for me, and I was really excited to begin my career." 

As the time to begin applying for a doctorate program inched closer, Utterback ultimately decided instead to continue her playing career. "In March, I reached out to an agency that I was already in contact with and sent them my highlight film with a couple of games, and within two weeks, I had multiple offers come my way."

Having connections such as Aggies head coach Dan Conners, who played professionally for Almoradi Volleyball Club in Spain, and former assistant coach Kendra Dahlke, who currently plays for the San Diego Mojo in Major League Volleyball, helped Utterback make the necessary connections and ultimately decide to compete for the Greek club ASP Thetis.

"It was really about communicating with everyone over there while looking at my skills to see where I felt I fit the best," recalls Utterback. "Playing as an opposite is really advantageous because over there, the opposites are the main players; they play all six rotations."

The advantages Utterback possesses as an opposite hitter weren't the only thing that made her stand out as a pro prospect. "I think the system of volleyball that Dan runs really is similar to European volleyball, and I think that really helped with my ability to morph my game into one that fits the European model." 

Utterback is just the latest line of former Aggies who have played overseas including Lindsey Dowd, who recently retired after 12 seasons across four countries, Lauren Matias, who most recently played for ASP Thetis in 2024, and Lana Radakovic, who competed for Club Voleibol Haris in Spain before returning to Davis as an assistant coach in 2025.

Before departing for Greece in August, Utterback had the opportunity to train in Davis with many of her former teammates. When asked about what advice she would give to any of them who may look to go pro, she said, "Communication on and off the court, [and] relationships with the coaches. I feel that I can be that model of what you can end up being if you work towards your goals and work towards other things outside of volleyball, especially relationships."

"For freshmen, it can be a little daunting, so I think giving them tidbits and advice can help them break out of their shell. Volleyball is a team effort; it isn't an individual effort, and that's something that's important to realize."

ASP Thetis W begins its season on Oct. 18 when they open at home against Olympiacos Piraeus W. It's the beginning of a 22-match schedule that stretches from Oct. 18, 2025-Mar. 21, 2026. Fans can follow along by HEADING HERE.