UCF Volleyball 50th Anniversary Special: 2003 with Hall of Famer Jenny Frank

Through every serve, rally and kill, one of the most defining seasons for UCF Women’s Volleyball was formed.

2003 was a record year for the Knights, concluding what had been a dominating era for the program with its third consecutive Atlantic Sun title and second NCAA postseason win ever.

Under the guidance of head coach Meg Colado, the Black and Gold charged on into their third consecutive NCAA Tournament. While the previous two years saw the Knights fall in the opening round, an experienced and determined squad prevailed in a storied first-round contest with Cincinnati.

The 2003 Atlantic Sun Player of the Year, Jenny Frank, was a staple of the early 2000s teams, and she made sure to leave her mark in her final collegiate campaign. From earning a spot in the Hall of Fame Class of 2011 to currently being ranked second for assists and fifth for service aces all-time, Frank made a lasting impact during her tenure at UCF.

The group went undefeated in their conference, beating Georgia State and Florida Atlantic University to claim the Atlantic Sun Championship title. They also held multiple winning streaks, the most notable being an 11-game streak at the beginning of the year. With the announcement of this being the last Atlantic Sun season, the team was determined, giving a nail-biting season to fans. Each tournament game came with energy and excitement as UCF prevailed despite having both wins and losses before being crowned champions.

Frank joined the squad in 2000. Her club coach connected her to Colado, who let her join as a setter. Her decision for college was filled with a mix of emotions as she entered an unplanned chapter. After being turned away from her top school, she turned to UCF and decided to help Colado with the program. Frank stated, “I knew I would play and make an impact immediately.” This ultimately was one of her biggest motivators to stay and continue fostering a program of growth.

During her tenure as captain, she worked closely with her coach to win the first round of the NCAA tournament. Frank still keeps in touch with her former teammates and reflects on their time together.

She took pride in learning from Colado and, after her playing career, returned as an assistant coach under her from 2006-07. 

Frank and her teammates formed a bond like no other, creating a sisterhood that was more than just a volleyball squad. With teammates like Jana Mitchell, a middle blocker ranked number nine in career blocks and block assists, and Amanda Stoutjesdyk, ranked number seven in blocks and block assists, it was not hard to lean on her team. Frank wasn’t the only teammate to be recognized in the conference, as Lindsey Whalen was named Atlantic Sun Libero of the year. The 2003 season was a roster full of talent and teammates who lifted each other up. 

Outside of their accomplishments as a team, they also built lifelong friendships. Going to the beach and taking spring break trips were just a couple of things the girls did in their free time together. The squad may be separated now, but they continue to value their time together whenever possible. 

The Women’s Volleyball team has progressed since then, entering the Big 12 nearly two decades after the historic season. Jenny Frank remains active in the programs community, attending the alumni game each year. “I'm incredibly proud to be a UCF knight. I hope they continue to grow, especially in the Big 12. All sports help any sport get a big name.” 

Even after joining the Big 12, the 2003 season built a legacy that players can look back on and learn from. They set records and goals that helped build the foundation on which the program stands. Whether fans look back at games from 2003 or watch the 2025 season, one thing that people can count on is the determination each squad has behind their games.

 

UCF VOLLEYBALL 50TH ANNIVERSARY MATCH

The Knights will honor former players and coaches who built the program from the ground up, welcoming Arizona for the annual Alumni Knight contest and 50th Anniversary celebration on Friday, October 17, on Oct. 17.