NEC Women’s Volleyball Power Rankings (Week 3)
1. Chicago State (4-5)
Chicago State jumps to the top after an impressive week that included wins over Southern Indiana and UIC. Led by Patrycja Lagida, who ranks third in the NEC in kills per set (3.43), and Berenice Almeyda, who leads the conference in hitting percentage (.343), the Cougars are hitting their stride. With two wins in a row, Chicago State is looking sharp ahead of conference play.
Key Player: Patrycja Lagida (3.43 kills/set, 133 points)
2. FDU (4-5)
FDU holds steady at number two after sweeping Lafayette but stumbling in a tough 3-2 loss to Fordham. Eleonora Tosi continues to lead the way offensively, ranking third in the NEC in hitting percentage (.282), while Hannah Schmidt's 5.58 assists per set keep the Knights' attack balanced. Despite the loss, FDU looks solid as they prepare for NEC competition.
Key Player: Eleonora Tosi (2.61 kills/set, .282 hitting percentage)
3. Saint Francis U (3-6)
Saint Francis drops slightly after suffering three straight losses. Maggie Hogan remains the driving force for the Red Flash, leading the team with 3.45 kills per set and ranking second in the NEC in points per set (3.90). Despite their recent struggles, Saint Francis has the talent to rebound and contend in the NEC.
Key Player: Maggie Hogan (3.45 kills/set, 3.90 points/set)
4. LIU (1-8)
LIU remains in the top half of the rankings despite a tough schedule that has seen them face several power conference opponents, including Minnesota and Auburn. Camelia Melendez and the defensive prowess of Alasha Colon (4.58 digs/set) give the Sharks hope heading into NEC play. Once their schedule eases, LIU should start to show their true potential.
Key Player: Alasha Colon (4.58 digs/set)
5. Stonehill (3-7)
Stonehill continues to be a competitive force, splitting their matches this week with a win over Saint Peter's and a loss to Providence. Mia Berardino remains the offensive leader, ranking fourth in the NEC in kills per set (2.92), while Abby Farrell contributes on both offense and defense. Consistency will be key for Stonehill as the season progresses.
Key Player: Mia Berardino (2.92 kills/set, .274 hitting percentage)
6. Central Connecticut (1-6)
Central Connecticut moves up a spot after picking up their first win of the season in a 3-2 thriller over Holy Cross. Lauren Milani leads the Blue Devils offensively, averaging 2.80 kills per set and ranking second in the NEC in service aces per set (0.60). If CCSU can build off this win, they could surprise some teams in conference play.
Key Player: Lauren Milani (2.80 kills/set, 0.60 aces/set)
7. Le Moyne (1-5)
Le Moyne picked up their first win of the season with a 3-2 victory over Morgan State but remains near the bottom of the rankings due to overall struggles. Jordyn Hamlin remains a bright spot. However, the Dolphins will need more contributions from their supporting cast to rise in the standings. Hayley Gerken ranks third in the conference for assists per set. Maybe that’s a good place to start.
Key Player: Hayley Gerken (5.71 assists/set)
8. Mercyhurst (1-6)
Mercyhurst drops to the bottom of the rankings after three straight losses. Paige Miller continues to perform well, but the Lakers have struggled to find consistency. With NEC play approaching, Mercyhurst will need to regroup and tighten up on both sides of the ball if they hope to compete.
Key Player: Paige Miller (2.81 kills/set)
Final Thoughts:
Chicago State's surge to the top is well-earned, as they've been building momentum. FDU and Saint Francis continue to be strong contenders, while LIU's tough schedule keeps them in the top half. Stonehill and Central Connecticut are showing flashes of potential, and both teams could make noise as the season progresses. Le Moyne and Mercyhurst remain at the bottom but have the talent to climb with improved play.
