By Anthony Gutierrez, October 28, 2025
After dominating a weekend full of matches, Cal Poly Pomona women’s volleyball stays undefeated in conference play, and senior libero Kaden Young earned the CCAA Defensive Player of the Week Oct. 7-13.
For Young, the honor conveys more than just an individual award but a reflection of the effort and chemistry built across the whole team.
“Honestly, it’s a huge honor,” Young said. “There are so many great defensive players in our conference, so being recognized like that means a lot. It’s also a reflection of our team dynamic and all the hard work we put in together every day.”
Young’s defensive presence has been massive in the Broncos’ early season success. Whether she’s putting her body on the line, diving on the floor or directing her teammates, she brings confidence and stays composed.
Young shared she loves “diving for a dig, putting my body on the line for a big play, and sharing that energy with my teammates.”
“Defense is really a team effort,” Young said. “I see this as a win for all of us. Every dig, every rally, it all comes down to trust and communication.”
Teammate Sarah Ybarra praised Young’s steady leadership and consistency on and off the court.
“She’s always communicating, keeping us organized and positive, even when things get tough. You can tell she loves what she does, and it motivates everyone around her,” Ybarra said.
This mindset has developed within Young since a young age. Growing up in Arizona, a friend introduced her to volleyball by inviting her to join a local volleyball club when she was 11 years old.
“Right when I touched the ball, I fell in love,” Young said. “I loved diving for a dig, putting my body on the line for a big play and sharing that energy with my teammates. From then on, I knew this was the sport for me.”
Young went on to play for Revolution Volleyball Academy, a program she credits for helping her grow not only as a player but as a competitor. Young described her early years as transformative and credited coaches who believed in her for pushing her in the right direction.
Her passion and determination grew in high school under the guidance of coach Valerie Mackenzie, who helped her navigate the adversity of recruitment and burnout.
Faith and team play are a couple of major factors that keep Young grounded, she said.
“I always give credit to God,” Young said. “He always plays through me and keeps me centered. And my teammates, they’re my motivation. I always want to be 1% better for them because volleyball isn’t about one person. We all feed off each other.”
Her unselfishness shows in her move from outside hitter to libero, a position that prioritizes defense and team coordination over scoring.
“Switching to libero taught me a lot about leadership,” Young said. “You’re directing the defense, keeping the energy high, and making sure everyone’s locked in. I take pride in being that steady voice.”
Young describes her play style as confident and composed, yet relentlessly energetic. “I’m a very consistent and vocal player,” she said. Even on off days, she focuses on contributing in other ways, keeping the team’s energy up, helping teammates regroup and making sure everyone feels supported.
Head coach Traci Dahl praised Young’s impact, acknowledging her leadership and reliability in the Bronco’s backcourt.
“She’s disciplined, vocal and always puts her teammates first,” Dahl said.
As the Broncos continue their season, her main focus is on maintaining consistency and supporting her team, staying steady in her position. After notching her first CCAA weekly honor, Young isn’t slowing down.
“Awards are great, but what matters most is helping my team win,” Young said. “Every dig, every point, it all adds up to something bigger.”
Feature image courtesy of CPP Athletics
