Legacy is celebrating with Class of 2021 alumna Tezra Rudzitis as she helps guide the University of St. Thomas volleyball team into its first-ever NCAA Division I Tournament appearance. Tezra is the daughter of Legacy band teacher and former head volleyball coach Rolly Rudzitis.
Tezra, who wears #15 for the Tommies, has become one of their key offensive leaders. She earned a spot on the Summit League All-Tournament Team after a strong performance in the conference tournament, where St. Thomas secured its NCAA spot with a 3–1 victory over South Dakota State in the championship match. Over her collegiate career, she has already earned multiple Summit League honors, including recognition as an All-League performer and a member of the All-Freshman Team, while posting some of the highest single-season kill totals in the Tommies’ Division I era.
Amid all her accomplishments on the court, Tezra continues to lead with humility and faith. When we asked what guidance she’d offer to young athletes and anyone pursuing greatness, she shared:
“I think the biggest thing for me, especially in my senior year, is just lean on the Lord. And I think that people say that a lot, but, like, straight up, we don’t have to worry about anything—ever. And as long as we are putting our identity in Him and understanding that I’m just using my gifts because He gave them to me. And so I don’t need to worry about if I’m going to win this or if I’m going to win that; I’m just showing people the gifts that He gave me, and I’m trying to lead them closer to the Lord as well. So I think leaning on the Lord, trusting in Him that He’s just going to do everything He needs to do, and I’m just going to do what He gives me.”
Her words reflect the heart she brings to both her faith and her sport, and that spirit has carried into a historic season for the Tommies.
This week, St. Thomas enters the NCAA Tournament after a record-setting season, finishing 21–9 overall and establishing new Division I program bests in wins and conference victories. The Tommies also rank among the nation’s top teams in several offensive categories, including aces, kills, and assists per set.
The Tommies will face No. 5 seed Iowa State on Friday, Dec. 5 at 4:30 p.m. at Maturi Pavilion in Minneapolis. The winner advances to play the winner of Minnesota vs. Fairfield on Saturday, Dec. 6. Tickets are available at gophersports.com, and each match will be streamed on ESPN+.
We’re incredibly proud of Tezra and the way she continues to represent Legacy—both in how she plays and how she leads. Join us in cheering her on as she steps onto the NCAA Division I stage and represents Legacy with excellence!
