KIRKLAND, Wash. — Northwest University beach volleyball celebrates four seniors who have played a pivotal role in building the program into what it is today: Masa Spela Jarc, Aubree Dees, Ava Hoy, Kylie Rankins, and Ellie Van Berkum.
From the early days of the program to its emergence as a competitive playoff team, this senior class has been at the center of it all. Through every challenge, milestone, and breakthrough, Jarc, Dees, Hoy, Rankins, and Van Berkum have consistently represented Northwest with pride, resilience, and a commitment to growth.
Head Coach Meng Bak reflected on the impact of this group:
"Ellie, Aubree, Masa, Kylie, and Ava have been the heart of our beach program since day one. Having the chance to grow alongside them—from my time as a volunteer assistant to now—has been incredibly special. It's been amazing to watch their growth, from a season where we couldn't find a win to becoming a playoff team. These athletes were part of every high and low, and they continued to show up each year with a commitment to get better and better. Their dedication, resilience, and belief in what we were building helped shape the culture of this program in a lasting way. I'm beyond grateful to have been their coach and for the patience and trust they showed along the journey. As they graduate and step into the next chapter, I hope beach volleyball continues to be a part of their lives — it's a game that creates connection wherever you go. Their impact here will be felt long after they've left the sand."
Northwest will honor its senior class on Senior Night, April 4, during the home beach tournament at 4th Ave Beach in Seattle. The ceremony will take place following the first matches of the day, with competition beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Beyond wins and losses, this senior class leaves behind something even more meaningful: a foundation. They helped establish the standard for what Northwest beach volleyball stands for: hard work, unity, and belief in the process.
As they move on to the next chapter, their legacy will continue to shape the program for years to come. The culture they built, the example they set, and the memories they created will remain a lasting part of Northwest athletics.
Northwest University thanks Masa, Aubree, Ava, Kylie, and Ellie for their dedication and leadership and wishes them nothing but success in all that lies ahead.
