SILVER CITY, NM – Western New Mexico Head Volleyball Coach Geno Frugoli announced the signing of two student-athletes, Jalissa Costa and McKenna Alvarez-Mittelsted. They join Briseis Armendariz and Payton Zenan, who signed during the Early Signing Period in the Fall.
 
"Both McKenna and Jalissa are exactly the types of players we're looking for at WNMU" Frugoli said. "These two are strong students and even better people. They provide us with all we need as we end our recruiting for 2026."
 
Jalissa Costa is a 5'9" outside hitter from Huntington Beach, who played for Golden West College in California. She was First Team All-Orange County Empire and made the All-Academic State Team. Jalissa led her team in aces, was third in the conference in kills and second in the conference in kills/set. As a prep athlete, she played for Marina High School, where she led her team in aces and guided them to the CIF Finals. Jalissa was named First Team All-Conference and was a member of the All-Academic State Team.
 
In her spare time, she is involved with her church group, plays the Ukulele, enjoys hiking, reading, painting/drawing, cooking/baking, lifting and volleyball. Jalissa intends to study Business and wants to either be the CEO of a sports company or CEO of a real estate company. She chose WNMU because it felt like home and a fresh start, all-in-one.
 
"Jalissa brings great character to our group, along with Southern California volleyball experience", Frugoli commented. "Her ability to score and her ball control will definitely help us this Fall."
 
McKenna Alvarez-Mittelsted is a 5'11" senior outside hitter who played for Houston Skyline Volleyball Club and Cinco Ranch High School in Katy, Texas. She's a member of the National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society. McKenna was elected to the Homecoming Court this year as a Senior.
 
An accomplished club volleyball player, her Houston Juniors team won Bronze in 2024 at AAU Nationals in the 16's Division. In her spare time, McKenna volunteers at the Houston Food Bank and is involved with Katy Christian Ministries. She's also actively involved in Future Farmers of America (FAA), having won First Place for her lamb at the Katy ISD Livestock Show in 2025 and Third Place in 2026.
 
McKenna intends to study Nursing at WNMU, with the intention of becoming a Pediatric Nurse; while hoping to continue her love of Agriculture through teaching. She chose WNMU based on the community, coaches and because the team made it seem like home.
 
When asked about Alvarez-Mittelsted, Frugoli said, "McKenna is a great ball control outside with an excellent work ethic and personality. She'll fit in with our culture and be a valuable member of our team."

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Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (X, TikTok & Instagram).