On March 2, 2025, the Dresdner SC volleyball team celebrated its seventh DVV Women's Volleyball Cup title, defeating USC Münster decisively with set scores of 3-0 (26:24, 25:12, 25:20) at the SAP Arena in Mannheim. This victory not only marked the team's return to glory, as they last won the cup in 2020, but it solidified their status as one of the most successful teams in the competition's history.
Before the match, fans gathered with great enthusiasm, filling the arena with energy. A total of 10,267 spectators watched as the teams took to the court, with the anticipation palpable among players and supporters alike. "We're going for it, we want to bring the cup back home," expressed Captain Sarah Straube before the match.
The final began with USC Münster unexpectedly showcasing strong performance, leading by as much as seven points early on. An excellent serve from Mia Kirchhoff and strategic plays from her teammates gave the underdog team hope. Yet, as Dresdner SC settled in, they showcased their ability to counter the challenge. Coach Alexander Waibl called for timeouts as they struggled initially, trying to regain control of the match.
"I’m just happy and excited for the girls because we have such a great team with so many wonderful athletes who deserved to win this title today," Waibl remarked after the match, highlighting the team's resilience and teamwork.
The first set was thrilling, with swings of momentum leading to dramatic points. With the score tied late, Dresdner SC managed to clinch the set, overcoming the early deficit and demonstrating their fighting spirit. The first set ended 26:24, marking the turning point of the match.
Confidence surged for Dresdner SC as they entered the second set. They quickly took command, with precise plays and effective strategies leaving USC Münster scrambling. The score ballooned as they dominated, closing the set at 25:12. This commanding performance reflected their experience and skill, putting them one set away from the championship.
Despite facing greater pressure, USC Münster attempted to rally for the third set. Initial exchanges were tight with both teams exchanging leads, but Dresdner SC's ability to remain composed and execute under pressure saw them gradually establish their dominance once more.
Mia Kirchhoff, who aided her team with impressive serves, voiced her frustrations, reflecting on the day, "It is extremely bitter. Dresden was the favorite; we were the underdog. We had hoped for more than just a 0-3 defeat. We could have done more since we played against them before and managed to give them trouble." The disappointment for USC crew was evident, as they aimed for their first title since 2005 but fell short.
With the match point arriving, the tension peaked. Lorena Lorber Fijok sealed the victory with her powerful service, leading to pivotal points. The three sets concluded with Dresdner SC showcasing their strength and teamwork, earning the title they had fought hard to reclaim.
Victory celebrations erupted as players embraced, their hard work over the season culminating gloriously. The joy on the court gave way to jubilations, with the team ready to begin their party. "We’ll head back home with the trophy, and we deserve this celebration," Straube declared, embodying the team's collective joy and triumph.
Following the match, Coach Waibl expressed immense pride, celebrating not just this victory, but his long history with the team. "I’ve seen this team grow and evolve. Each title we win together holds immense significance, and this one, especially, after the adversities we faced on the way, makes it feel incredibly rewarding,” he remarked.
The result leaves USC Münster with the bitter challenge of waiting for another chance to break their title drought, as their last triumph was two decades ago. While both teams set their eyes on future competitions—the SC now prepares for the Supercup and the European CEV Cup—Dresden's achievement serves as a reminder of their prowess within German volleyball.
This year's cup final not only heralded another phase of success for Dresdner SC but reinforced the competitive spirit of the sport, inspiring fans and players alike as they look forward to the future.