HILL AIR FORCE BASE — The Hill Air Force Base varsity volleyball program achieved a major milestone while competing in the National Championship tournament, at the Mission Concepcion Sports Complex in San Antonio, Texas, Feb. 21–24.
Both the men’s and co-ed teams were crowned national champions of the Air Force Varsity Volleyball League, a national league with 43 teams representing Air Force and Space Force bases.
Hill’s women finished the season placing second in the Western Region out of 11 teams.
“This success comes down to the players’ dedication and effort,” said Tawny De Nio, head coach of the men’s team and program manager. “Practicing twice a week for nine months and showing commitment led to our achievements.”
The Hill program ended the season with 24 athletes: 13 men and 11 women. Their efforts were supported by coaches Rick-Ryan Ah-Hong, Jacob Pearce, Dylan Berra, and Joshua Boozer.
De Nio emphasized the close bond among the players, saying, “Beyond the trophies, the sense of community is the real win.”
De Nio said the program has brought a sense of belonging to young Airmen, spouses, veterans, NCOs, officers, and others.
“Our people look out for each other and have created a family on- and off-the-court,” she said.
The teams’ strong performances earned individual recognition. Three athletes—Rick-Ryan Ah-Hong, Joshua Boozer, and Henrianna Mann—were selected for the Western Region All-Stars team. Rick-Ryan Ah-Hong and Dylan Berra were also chosen for the DAF Air Force Volleyball Team in 2024, with Ah-Hong making the 2025 tryout list.
During the season, Hill teams competed at tournaments hosted by Air Force and Space Force bases across the country, including F.E. Warren, Peterson, Fairchild, Beale, Creech, and Randolph. Local scrimmages against teams like Kongo, and Vortex also helped the team prepare.
Looking ahead, Hill AFB Varsity Volleyball is gearing up for the next season, with tryouts scheduled for June 2025. Open gym sessions are held Wednesdays at the Warrior Fitness Center, where new athletes are often recruited.
For more information, follow Hill AFB Volleyball on Instagram (@hillafbvarsityvolleyball), Facebook (Hill AFB Volleyball), or email hillafbvarsityvolleyball@gmail.com.