NEC Women’s Volleyball Power Rankings: Week 2
1. Saint Francis (3-3)
Saint Francis surges to the top of the rankings after winning three straight, including convincing sweeps over Penn and Siena. Outside hitter Maggie Hogan continues to dominate, leading the NEC in kills per set (3.91) and points per set (4.36). With a strong defensive performance and the team gelling at home, the Red Flash look poised to continue their winning ways.
Key Player: Maggie Hogan (3.91 kills/set, 4.36 points/set)
2. Chicago State (2-3)
Despite a 2-3 record, Chicago State looked strong this week with back-to-back wins over Evansville and Miami (OH). Led by Patrycja Lagida, who ranks second in the NEC in kills per set (3.75), the Cougars have shown resilience. Their competitive non-conference schedule will help prepare them for NEC play.
Key Player: Patrycja Lagida (3.75 kills/set)
3. FDU (2-4)
FDU climbs up a spot after winning two of their last three matches, including a solid 3-1 victory over Iona. Middle blocker Eleonora Tosi remains a key contributor, ranking third in the NEC for hitting percentage (.290). The Knights have shown flashes of their potential, but consistency will be key going forward.
Key Player: Eleonora Tosi (2.76 kills/set, .290 hitting percentage)
4. Stonehill (2-5)
Stonehill edges up after splitting results this week, securing a 3-2 win over Merrimack. Mia Berardino continues to be a force on offense, sitting fourth in the NEC with 2.92 kills per set. Stonehill's ability to grind out a win shows their potential to be a tough competitor in conference play.
Key Player: Mia Berardino (2.92 kills/set, .277 hitting percentage)
5. LIU (1-5)
Despite dropping two tough matches to power conference opponents (Tennessee, UCLA), LIU remains competitive thanks to Camelia Melendez and a challenging schedule. The Sharks’ defense, led by Alasha Colon, has been stellar, with Colon averaging 4.33 digs per set. LIU's difficult early schedule should have them prepared for NEC play.
Key Player: Alasha Colon (4.33 digs/set)
6. Mercyhurst (1-5)
Mercyhurst struggled this week, suffering back-to-back losses to Canisius and Penn. However, standout performances from Paige Miller keep them from falling further in the rankings. The Lakers will need to find consistency as they head into their next matches.
Key Player: Paige Miller (2.81 kills/set)
7. Le Moyne (0-3)
Le Moyne was idle this past week but remains winless on the season. Despite being on a three-game losing streak, Jordyn Hamlin has been a bright spot, ranking third in the NEC in kills per set (3.11). Le Moyne will need to improve quickly to stay competitive in the NEC.
Key Player: Jordyn Hamlin (3.11 kills/set)
8. Central Connecticut (0-5)
Central Connecticut continues to struggle, falling in straight sets in all five matches so far. The Blue Devils have yet to find their rhythm on either side of the ball, but they’ll look to regroup as conference play approaches. Lauren Milani remains a key contributor, leading the team in kills and service aces.
Key Player: Lauren Milani (2.67 kills/set, 0.67 aces/set)
Final Thoughts
Saint Francis takes the top spot with their winning streak, while Chicago State and FDU continue to show promise. LIU’s tough schedule keeps them in the middle of the pack, and teams like Stonehill and Mercyhurst have flashes of potential but need more consistency. Le Moyne and Central Connecticut will look for their first wins as conference play nears.
