University of Northern Colorado Athletics

Syd Cole Set to Make Pro Debut with Vegas Thrill
1/9/2025 12:00:00 PM | General, Women's Volleyball
GREELEY, Colo. – Two-time All-American Syd Cole is set to continue her volleyball career at the professional level, earning a spot on the Vegas Thrill roster for their second season in the Pro Volleyball Federation.
Cole, one of the most decorated players in Northern Colorado history, leaves a legacy as the only Bear to earn All-American honors in the program's NCAA Division I era. She received honorable mention All-American accolades in both 2022 and 2024, joining an elite group as just the fifth player in program history to earn multiple All-American honors.
"We are so excited for Syd that she made the final roster for the Vegas Thrill," head coach Lyndsey Oates said. "She has earned the right to be there. She has great instincts and is a quick learner. We are very proud of her."
Cole capped her collegiate career in 2024 by leading the Big Sky Conference in assists, averaging 10.22 per set with 1,339 total assists. Her efforts placed her fourth nationally in total assists. She also ranked ninth in the league with 0.3 aces per set. Cole's standout season earned her a host of accolades, including Big Sky most valuable player, setter of the year, first-team honors, and a spot on the all-tournament team.
Now, Cole is ready to make her professional debut as the Vegas Thrill opens its season at home. The Thrill will face the Grand Rapids Rise on Friday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. PST at Lee's Family Forum in Las Vegas.
"Making it on the Thrill is an amazing opportunity, and I am so excited to learn from the best," Cole said. "I am so thankful for everything UNC has shown me and couldn't be here without the support from this amazing program."
Fans can catch all the action from the Pro Volleyball Federation this season on the league's official YouTube channel at youtube.com/@realprovb.
Cole, one of the most decorated players in Northern Colorado history, leaves a legacy as the only Bear to earn All-American honors in the program's NCAA Division I era. She received honorable mention All-American accolades in both 2022 and 2024, joining an elite group as just the fifth player in program history to earn multiple All-American honors.
"We are so excited for Syd that she made the final roster for the Vegas Thrill," head coach Lyndsey Oates said. "She has earned the right to be there. She has great instincts and is a quick learner. We are very proud of her."
Cole capped her collegiate career in 2024 by leading the Big Sky Conference in assists, averaging 10.22 per set with 1,339 total assists. Her efforts placed her fourth nationally in total assists. She also ranked ninth in the league with 0.3 aces per set. Cole's standout season earned her a host of accolades, including Big Sky most valuable player, setter of the year, first-team honors, and a spot on the all-tournament team.
Now, Cole is ready to make her professional debut as the Vegas Thrill opens its season at home. The Thrill will face the Grand Rapids Rise on Friday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. PST at Lee's Family Forum in Las Vegas.
"Making it on the Thrill is an amazing opportunity, and I am so excited to learn from the best," Cole said. "I am so thankful for everything UNC has shown me and couldn't be here without the support from this amazing program."
Fans can catch all the action from the Pro Volleyball Federation this season on the league's official YouTube channel at youtube.com/@realprovb.
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