Mustangs Continue AVP Success with Strong Finishes in Santa Barbara

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif.- Current and former Cal Poly beach volleyball student-athletes made their mark at the AVP Santa Barbara Open over the weekend, highlighted by Mustang alum Mariah Whalen, who secured the tournament championship.

Whalen and her partner Geena Urrango claimed the title in straight sets, defeating Maya Gessner and Kate Reilly 21–8, 21–17 in Sunday's final to wrap up an impressive performance from several Mustangs on the courts. Fellow alumni and current players also earned top finishes, continuing to represent Cal Poly among the nation's top beach volleyball talent.

Mustang duo Ella Connor and Erin Inskeep tied for third, while recent grad Lindsey Sparks and her partner also finished third after advancing through a competitive draw. Former Mustang Delaney Peranich and senior Izzy Martinez each placed fifth, and former Mustangs Piper Ferch and Torrey VanWinden each earned ninth-place finishes. The duo of Emma Zuffelato and Margo Smith rounded out the Mustang lineup, placing 17th.

With Mustangs earning top-tier results, the weekend was another strong showing for the program, as both current players and alumni continue to shine on the AVP Tour. Fans can get their first look at the 2026 Mustangs this fall when Cal Poly hosts a home tournament October 24 at the Swanson Beach Volleyball Complex and October 25 on the courts at Pismo Beach.

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Mustangs Continue AVP Success with Strong Finishes in Santa Barbara

Players Mentioned

Ella Connor

Piper Ferch

Erin Inskeep

Izzy Martinez

Delaney Peranich

Margo Smith

Lindsey Sparks

Mariah Whalen

Emma Zuffelato

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Mustangs Continue AVP Success with Strong Finishes in Santa Barbara

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Players Mentioned

Ella Connor

Piper Ferch

Erin Inskeep

Izzy Martinez

Delaney Peranich

Margo Smith

Lindsey Sparks

Mariah Whalen

Emma Zuffelato

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