When it comes to Frank the Tank, expect more than just the usual story. Sarah Franklin, the 22-year-old with a knack for defying the odds, has already battled through two serious injuries in her college career. But each time, she came back stronger, refusing to let anything hold her down. This time, though, there was no injury in her way. Still, after Wisconsin’s NCAA Regional final loss to Nebraska, Franklin had little chance to share her usual moments with the Wisconsin volleyball faithful. That game against the Huskers was supposed to be her last collegiate match, and it ended on a tough note—with a loss that left fans disappointed.

On December 16, Franklin posted a heartfelt thank-you note to the fans, signaling what everyone thought was a final goodbye. But hold up—this story is far from over. Just like before, Sarah Franklin isn’t backing down. She’s not ready to say goodbye to Wisconsin just yet. Her latest decision has her making a comeback to Madison, and the fans couldn’t be more thrilled.

Sarah Franklin is coming back to Wisconsin and how!

After Wisconsin volleyball’s exit from the NCAA volleyball contention this year, Sarah Franklin had the option to return to Florida, her hometown. Having spent two years with the Wisconsin Badgers, she might have concentrated on making her path to enter the senior national team. Now, it seems like she has a ride to turn her volleyball career professional. Yes, Sarah Franklin is on her way to turning pro. Credit goes to League One Volleyball (LOVB) Madison, who roped her in on the roster. On December 20, just hours after the NCAA Volleyball Elite Eight games, the Instagram handle of LOVB Madison brought the update. Naturally, the news has so many branches to make the Badgers fans emotional. 

First off, Sarah Franklin won’t have to leave Wisconsin for her next pro volleyball season. LOVB Madison’s season kicks off in the first quarter of 2025, meaning Franklin will be back in the game soon enough. But that’s not all. Last Friday, she couldn’t defend her AVCA Player of the Year title, despite a stellar season. With 4.46 kills per set, a 0.289 hitting percentage, 30 aces, 2.28 digs, 0.49 blocks, and 595.5 total points, Sarah’s performance made her a finalist for National Player of the Year. However, the award went to Olivia Babcock this time, a tough loss for fans who were hoping to see Franklin reign once again.

But here’s the silver lining: Sarah’s pro comeback news has fans feeling a lot better. The announcement has lifted spirits, and her supporters have been sharing their excitement across social media. So while the Player of the Year title may have slipped through her fingers, Franklin’s next chapter is just beginning, and fans couldn’t be more thrilled.

Fans are finding plenty of reasons to celebrate after Frank the Tank’s big comeback

“Oh my god im sobbing my eyes out shes staying here,” one fan posted on LOVB Madison Volleyball’s Instagram post, and honestly, we get it. What amount of fandom could spark such a heartfelt reaction from someone who’s only been in Wisconsin for two years? The answer might not come with a number, but it definitely comes with Sarah Franklin’s name. Lucky for her fans, she’s sticking around to keep that connection alive.

In her new chapter with LOVB Madison, Franklin will join some familiar faces from the Badgers, and fans are here for it. One fan couldn’t contain their excitement, commenting, “Knew it!!! Woohoo! So excited to watch her reunited with @temi_t_ and with the Badger legend setter @laurencarlini 🔥❤️” That’s right—Franklin’s teaming up with Temi Thomas-Ailara and Lauren Carlini, two Wisconsin alums who’ve gone on to do big things. Sarah’s hoping to follow in their footsteps, and fans are buzzing about the reunion.

For some, it’s a double celebration. One fan shared, “Best news!!! As a season ticket holder for both the Badgers and our new pro team, I couldn’t be more excited. 👏🏼👏🏼” The LOVB ticket sales are already heating up, and with Sarah’s comeback announcement, the timing couldn’t be better. But wait. There’s more!

Then there’s another fan who couldn’t wait to see the magic unfold, commenting, “Was waiting for this!! I’m so happy she’s on the Madison team!! Her and my favorite volleyball player Annie Drews together on the same team will be one heck of a combo!!” And yes, Annie Drews—Tokyo Olympic champion and former Boilermaker—will now be sharing the court with Sarah Franklin, which is basically every fan’s dream duo.

And of course, the love isn’t just for the college crowd. One fan on X expressed, “Heck yeah! My son is going to be so happy. He was crushed when he went to her last home game as a Badger. When my wife told him she was done he cried.” Talk about heartwarming! Sarah Franklin’s bond with the Badgers’ fans goes across ages, and now they get even more time to cheer her on. What do you think of Sarah Franklin’s comeback in Madison? Drop your thoughts in the comments!