Kentucky Volleyball Adds Elite Depth with Notre Dame Transfer Morgan Gaerte
Following a stellar 2025 campaign that ended as the NCAA national runner-up, the Kentucky volleyball program fortified its roster ahead of the 2026 season by securing standout transfer Morgan Gaerte from Notre Dame. The 6-foot-5 junior joins the Wildcats as a preseason All-SEC selection and AVCA National Player of the Year watch list honoree.
Fantasy & Market Impact
- Roster Valuation: Gaerte is moving from outside hitter with the Irish to the right side for the Wildcats.
Bridging the Gap: From Fighting Irish Standout to Wildcat Weapon
Last season in South Bend, Gaerte racked up 497 kills across 107 sets for a 4.6 kills-per-set average. That production earned her a 2025 AVCA Division I Women’s All-America honorable mention. But the transition to Lexington has required an adjustment in scope rather than raw talent.
According to kentucky.com reporting, Gaerte noted that the primary adjustment wasn’t the competitive level in the gym, but the comprehensive alignment across the entire program. From athletic trainers to strength coaches, the synchronized execution of the program’s day-to-day processes immediately stood out to the junior transfer.
| Metric / Attribute | 2025 (at Notre Dame) | 2026 (at Kentucky) |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Outside Hitter | Right-Side Hitter |
| Height | 6-foot-5 | 6-foot-5 |
| Previous Season Output | 497 Kills (4.6 / set) | Preseason All-SEC / AVCA Watch List |
Tactical Fit and the Skinner Blueprint
Head coach Craig Skinner, who has led Kentucky to 21 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, highlighted Gaerte’s sheer physical profile at the program’s media day. Skinner pointed out that Gaerte touches way above the net, producing swings that are “undiggable at times.”
Because she played all the way around for two years with the Fighting Irish, Skinner and his staff have a player who has been a starter.
Elevating Cultural and Physical Standards
Teammates have quickly embraced the tangible energy Gaerte brings to the floor. Senior libero Molly Tuozzo, fellow AVCA National Player of the Year watch list selection, praised Gaerte for bringing an infectious joy and energy to the group.
While raw kill numbers grab headlines, Gaerte noted that the program has added to their verticals and gotten bigger, faster, and stronger. This physical preparation comes as the team prepares for the experience of playing in top-five matches and before sellout crowds.
As the Wildcats prepare to defend their SEC dominance and chase another deep NCAA postseason run, Gaerte’s adaptability on the right side will serve as a key piece to what UK hopes will be a competitive season.
