Maile Somera, a standout volleyball player at Yale, has been awarded the 2024 Nellie Pratt Elliot Award, Yale's highest honor for a senior female athlete. Over her Yale career, she led the Bulldogs to three Ivy League championships, two NCAA tournament appearances, and a dominant 47-8 record in Ivy matches. Somera ranks second all-time at Yale in service aces and fifth in digs and digs per set. She earned multiple accolades, including Ivy Defensive Player of the Year, and was named to All-Ivy and Academic All-Ivy teams several times. Somera's leadership and athletic prowess epitomize the values of sportsmanship and Yale tradition.

By the Numbers
  • 136 service aces - Second all-time at Yale
  • 1,366 digs - Fifth in school history
  • 14-0 league record in the last season
  • 47-8 record in Ivy matches over four seasons
State of Play
  • Completed Yale career with outstanding individual and team accomplishments
  • Graduating with a degree in architecture
  • Member of Pierson College
What's Next

Somera’s future endeavors could see her leveraging her leadership and analytical skills from volleyball into her career in architecture or related fields. Her commitment to excellence on and off the court suggests a promising path ahead in whatever she pursues.

Bottom Line

Maile Somera’s collegiate volleyball career not only set a high athletic standard but also showcased stellar academic and leadership qualities, making her a role model in embodying Yale’s values. Her legacy will inspire future athletes at Yale.