MADISON – The recent success of Puerto Rico in the NORCECA Continental Championship has brought a mix of emotions for Wisconsin volleyball fans. On one hand, the performance was a significant achievement for the national team, which secured a spot in the 2027 World Cup. On the other hand, it presents a challenge for the Badgers as they welcome 16-year-old Decelise Champion into their ranks.
Champion's qualification with the Puerto Rican senior national team is a monumental milestone for the young athlete, but it also means she may miss some early-season matches with Wisconsin. Badgers head coach Kelly Sheffield humorously noted the dilemma of rooting for Champion’s success while also needing her on the court for Wisconsin. "I wasn’t sure whether to root for her or root against her just then," he remarked, highlighting the bittersweet nature of the situation.
Despite potential absences, Champion's arrival is a cause for optimism among Wisconsin volleyball supporters. Sheffield has expressed confidence in her abilities, stating that her potential is among the highest he has seen in his 14 years at the helm of the program. Champion showcased her skills on an international stage, earning all-tournament honors as the top scorer and second-best spiker during the championship, where she contributed 34 points in a crucial five-set victory over Mexico.
Wisconsin right-side hitter Grace Lopez, who has previously played alongside Champion for Puerto Rico, shared her excitement about Champion’s transition to college volleyball. Lopez described Champion as a mature individual, noting her experiences living in Italy for two years without her parents. "She’s 16 years old, but she’s such a mature girl," Lopez said, emphasizing Champion’s readiness to compete at a higher level.
Champion's debut with the Badgers is highly anticipated, especially following Wisconsin’s rocky start to the 2026 season, where the team struggled with a 1-3 record and a hitting percentage of just .185. However, Sheffield is mindful of the need for patience as Champion adjusts to her new environment. She arrived on campus late on September 1, making it unlikely for her to suit up for the Badgers in their upcoming match against No. 17 Florida on September 2.
Sheffield expressed his concerns about Champion’s readiness, stating, "Will she be 24 hours later or less than that suiting up for us without getting a practice in?" He acknowledged the demanding nature of the tournament she just completed and the need for her to recuperate before fully integrating into the team. "There’s going to need to be some downtime and then a ramping-back-up time," he explained, emphasizing the importance of her well-being.
Beyond the volleyball court, Champion faces the challenges of adjusting to college life at a young age. Sheffield pointed out that while volleyball will be a focal point, the distractions and experiences of college life will also play a significant role in her transition. He remarked, "The question isn’t about volleyball. It’s college life. There’s all the nonsense and awesomeness and distractions that go along with it." Champion will need to navigate these new experiences while also managing her academic responsibilities, all while communicating in her second language.
As Champion embarks on her journey with Wisconsin volleyball, both the team and its fans are eager to see how she will impact the program. While her immediate playing status remains uncertain, the excitement surrounding her potential is palpable, and her contributions could be pivotal as the Badgers look to turn around their season.
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