Columbia volleyball has announced the addition of three new players to its 2025 roster. Head coach Patric Santiago introduced the incoming class, which includes two outside hitters and a libero.
“We are excited for this class to compete with us this season,” Santiago said. “They were heavily recruited early and we’ve been patiently waiting for them. Now we finally get to see them play in Levien.”
The first newcomer is Lauren Farris, an outside hitter from Santa Margarita Catholic in Trabuco Canyon, California. Farris was a three-time letter winner and named a three-star recruit by Volleyball Recruiter. She helped her high school team achieve a 25-15 record and a No. 19 ranking in California during her senior year. Farris also played for Tstreet Volleyball Club, recognized as the top club program in Orange County, and received several individual honors at club tournaments.
Coach Santiago described Farris as follows: “Lauren, who comes from one of the best clubs in the country, is a player who brings a great deal of attributes. She is a complete player with command of all six skills and possesses a wonderful arm and tremendous serve. She is a quiet no nonsense competitor who is focused on getting better everyday and the success of her team. We are so excited to see what she will add to our gym.”
Victoria Gao joins Columbia as a libero from Lakeside School in Seattle, Washington. Gao was captain during her junior and senior years, earned First Team All-Washington State honors in 2022, and led her team to a state championship. She holds single-season and career records for digs at Lakeside School.
Santiago commented on Gao: “Victoria is an energetic libero who plays with a ton of energy, confidence, and most importantly joy. The passion with which she pursues the game along with her hunger to improve set her apart as a competitor. Victoria is also first team all hype squad and revels in her teammates success. I think our fans and team will enjoy her time here at Columbia.”
Elena Maynulet rounds out the class as an outside hitter from Lake Highland Prep in Orlando, Florida, originally from Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. Maynulet captained her high school team to a state championship during her senior year while earning several regional and national honors including AVCA Third Team All-American recognition. She also competed internationally with Puerto Rico’s U19 National Team.
Santiago spoke about Maynulet’s abilities: “Playing for a club team that double qualified in open this year, Elena has established herself as one of the top outside hitters in the country this past season. She is a threat from the front and back row, with the ability to attack from altitude with a high level of IQ. Her time training with the Puerto Rican national team and her aspirations to play volleyball after college have helped her make great strides in her game and we are excited for her potential to continue this growth.”
Fans can view the full roster or follow updates through Columbia’s official channels on Twitter (@CULionsVB), Instagram, or GoColumbiaLions.com.
