The Mizzou volleyball program is making waves on the international recruiting scene, as head coach Dawn Sullivan has secured a late addition to the 2026 roster with serious global credentials. Ceylin Kuyan, a dynamic 6-foot-3 outside hitter from Istanbul, Turkey, is officially joining the Tigers—bringing a wealth of experience that belies her freshman status.
Kuyan isn't just another promising recruit; she's a proven competitor on the world stage. She played a pivotal role for Turkey's U19 National Team, helping the squad capture a gold medal at the 2025 European Youth Summer Olympic Festival and earning a fourth-place finish at the 2025 FIVB Girls' U19 World Championship. Her individual accolades are equally impressive, having been named a two-time Best Outside Hitter and a one-time Best Opposite during her national team tenure. Domestically, Kuyan has spent the last two seasons honing her craft with Zeren Spor Kulübü in Turkey's competitive club circuit.
This move aligns perfectly with Sullivan's strategy of building a global pipeline. She has previous experience coaching Turkish talent, including Dilara Gedikoglu, and Kuyan becomes the third international player on the roster, joining Serbian standout Nina Mandovic and Argentina's Maca Lobaglio. The blend of different playing styles and perspectives could be a game-changer for the Tigers' chemistry and tactical depth.
From a team perspective, Kuyan's arrival couldn't be more timely. Mizzou is facing a significant transition at the outside hitter position following the departure of graduating starters Caylen Alexander and Janet deMarrais. That leaves a void of experience but also creates a golden opportunity for younger players to step up and claim a starting role. As a freshman with high-level international experience, Kuyan has a real chance to make an immediate impact.
After missing the NCAA Tournament under Sullivan's guidance, the Tigers are hungry to return to the national stage. With Kuyan and a crop of talented newcomers arriving with a chip on their shoulder, Mizzou volleyball is poised for a renaissance. For fans looking to rep the next generation of Tigers, this is a season to watch closely.