NEC Volleyball Power Rankings: Week 6
1. FDU (12-5, 2-0 NEC)
FDU continues to really stretch my imagination to come up with ways to say what should be simple: this team is really good, and they’re not loosening their grip on the top spot at all after one week of NEC action. The Knights enjoyed a flawless start to conference play, sweeping through Le Moyne and picking up a non-conference win against Stony Brook. Eleonora Tosi and Kylie Nott continue to be forces at the net, while Hannah Schmidt has been dominant from the service line, leading the NEC in aces per set. The Knights are on a crazy eight-match win streak and are looking every bit the team to beat.
Key Player: Hannah Schmidt (0.61 aces/set, 5.65 assists/set)
2. Chicago State (6-8, 2-0 NEC)
Chicago State kicked off NEC play in dominant fashion with back-to-back sweeps of Central Connecticut. Julieta Sandez continues to lead the league in hitting percentage, while setter Wiktoria Zagumny paces the conference in assists per set. The Cougars are showing their potential in the NEC after navigating fairly well through a tough non-conference schedule, and with Patrycja Lagida and Berenice Almeyda playing at such a high level, Chicago State is a dangerous team moving forward.
Key Player: Julieta Sandez (.346 hitting percentage)
3. Saint Francis U (5-9, 1-1 NEC)
The Red Flash split their opening NEC matches with LIU, bouncing back with a strong 3-1 win in the rematch after a close five-set loss. Maggie Hogan and Korrin Burns continue to deliver offensively, with Burns leading the NEC in kills per set. There’s a lot of competition for this proclamation, but Burns just might be playing the best ball in the entire conference right now. Saint Francis has shown they can compete with anyone, and they’ll be a force as the season progresses.
Key Player: Korrin Burns (3.89 kills/set, 4.40 points/set)
4. LIU (3-13, 1-1 NEC)
LIU grabbed a key victory over Saint Francis U in five sets to open NEC play, demonstrating their grit in tight matches. Saint Francis rebounded the next day with a 4 set win, and so the split decision with the Red Flash helps them climb to number four on our rankings. Despite their overall record, the Sharks have shown the talent that earned them a preseason No. 2 ranking. Now that the non-conference schedule is over, the Sharks are prepared and forged in fire to swim their way through the league. Alasha Colon continues to anchor the defense, leading the NEC in digs per set.
Key Player: Alasha Colon (4.60 digs/set)
5. Stonehill (5-9, 1-1 NEC)
Stonehill started NEC play by splitting two hard-fought matches against Mercyhurst. Mia Berardino continues to shine as one of the NEC’s top hitters, and Abby Farrell’s all-around play has been crucial for the Skyhawks. With a strong balance of offense and defense, Stonehill is poised to climb even higher in the rankings as they settle into conference play.
Key Player: Mia Berardino (3.03 kills/set)
6. Mercyhurst (2-10, 1-1 NEC)
Mercyhurst got their first NEC win of the season- check that, of all time- with a solid 3-1 victory over Stonehill after struggling in the opener to conference play. After getting into a little bit of a rut, it’s good seeing the Lake Show climb up the rankings a little bit in volleyball-crazed Western Pennsylvania. Paige Miller has been a consistent force, and the Lakers are starting to show signs of growth. With continued development, Mercyhurst could become a tough out as the season progresses.
Key Player: Paige Miller (2.95 kills/set)
7. Central Connecticut (2-12, 0-2 NEC)
It was a tough start to NEC play for Central Connecticut, as they dropped two matches to Chicago State in straight sets. However, the Blue Devils have shown potential to disrupt this season, especially with strong individual performances from Lauren Milani and Weronika Poczynek. As conference play continues, CCSU will look to bounce back and capitalize on their talent. Chicago State is a tough team; we haven’t seen the last noise from New Britain this year.
Key Player: Lauren Milani (2.57 kills/set, 3.11 points/set)
8. Le Moyne (1-12, 0-2 NEC)
Le Moyne had a difficult start to NEC competition, falling in back-to-back matches against FDU. Despite the losses, the Dolphins are led by standout performances from players like Anaya Rawlinson, who continues to hit at a high level. With time and experience, this young team could surprise opponents later in the season.
Key Player: Anaya Rawlinson (.298 hitting percentage)
Final Thoughts:
FDU continues to lead the pack, while Chicago State is emerging as a serious contender. LIU and Saint Francis, the top two teams entering the season, are just a little behind them. Seeing Mercyhurst and Stonehill split their series underscores how talented the Lakers might be in their first season in NEC play; Stonehill certainly hasn’t been a slouch to open up the year. Le Moyne and Central Connecticut drew tough outs to open league play. It’s not over ‘till it’s over, and there’s a lot of good action coming up ahead.
Games of the Weekend Recap: LIU and Saint Francis Split a Weekend in Brooklyn
It just couldn’t have gone any other way.
We were so excited by the prospect of preseason #1 Saint Francis traveling to Brooklyn to take on the preseason #2 LIU Sharks to kick off the women’s volleyball season. The preseason race was tight between the two squads, going down to the points beyond the (evenly split) first place votes. But leave the polls in the past, because we’ve finally made it to Northeast Conference play and suddenly we were being treated to a matchup between two Goliaths in one of the five boroughs.
In the first match, LIU narrowly defeated Saint Francis in a thrilling five-set battle. LIU took the first two sets, 25-18 and 25-20, with strong hitting efficiency, especially in the second set where they hit .241. It looked like it would be a runaway for the Sharks at home, but the Red Flash regrouped and refused to go down so easily. Saint Francis fought back, staving off defeat in the third set by dragging the set out to overtime. They held off the Sharks to win 27-25, and then took the fourth 25-21, forcing a decisive fifth set.
However, LIU regained momentum and sealed the match with a 15-10 win in the final set. Saint Francis struggled offensively throughout, gutting out the two set wins while hitting just .115 overall compared to LIU’s .180. Maggie Hogan led Saint Francis with 18 kills, while Camelia Melendez dominated for LIU with 25 kills. LIU's more efficient attack, paired with fewer errors, helped them secure the win.
But there would be no time for LIU to rest, and the Red Flash were hungry to get the win back. In the rematch on October 5, Saint Francis rebounded with a 3-1 victory over LIU. The Red Flash came out strong, winning the first two sets 25-20 and 25-21, with their best offensive performance in the first set, hitting .345. LIU responded by roaring back in the third set 25-18, but there would be no fifth set on Sunday. Saint Francis closed out the match with a 25-21 victory in the fourth. In the rematch, Saint Francis was more efficient, hitting .209 as a team. Korrin Burns led the way for Saint Francis with 23 kills, supported by Kori McClure’s 16 kills. Alexandra Sappia had a standout performance with 48 assists and 14 digs, helping the Red Flash dominate both offensively and defensively to even the weekend series.
We had entered into the weekend wondering if we would get more clarity into where the NEC Women’s Volleyball season would take us. We didn’t get any spoilers in Brooklyn. LIU and Saint Francis are both 1-1 in conference play, and having gotten each other out of the way, how they fare against the rest of the conference will determine if the two squads are in the tournament at the end of the regular season.
NEC Blitz Games of the Weekend: Saint Francis at LIU
Give the NEC credit: they made sure not to bury the lede this season.
Preseason #1 Saint Francis travels to Preseason #2 LIU for a crucial match up in Brooklyn on Friday at 6:00 PM and Saturday at 1:00 PM. This series is our NEC Blitz Games of the Weekend. It’s no surprise pick given the pre-season expectations for both squads, although their current places in the Power Rankings don’t reflect the talent each squad has. That’s the nature of non-conference play, though.
LIU played an absolutely brutal stretch. It wasn’t that their skill wasn’t on display. LIU has plenty of talented players on their squad, like Bria Plante, Alasha Colon, Camelia Melendez, and Bella Correia, all of whom have received NEC honors in this young season. They’re 2-12 on the season, though, and in every sport your record is who you are. However, along with that 2-12 record is a 0-0 record in conference play. The Sharks are a storied NEC program, and the level of defensive play in Brooklyn (anchored by Alasha Colon) will ensure that they remain in the league chase.
Meanwhile, the Red Flash have a talented squad of their own and a win against LIU will go a long way towards securing an NEC tournament berth even now as conference play begins. Korrin Burns has already earned player of the week honors while Alyssa Irwin was named Rookie of the Week on September 10th. The one-two punch of Saint Francis is undeniable as well, with Korrin Burns leading the conference in kills (3.81) just ahead of teammate Maggie Hogan (3.38). They’ve also got the top two in the conference in service aces per game (Drew Wallech and Alexandra Sappia). They’ll be a tough out for the Sharks.
This’ll be a Friday night battle that any fan of NEC volleyball shouldn’t miss. You won’t have to work too hard to see it, either, as the game is streaming on NEC Front Row. It’s impossible to predict this one, but more than any other game this season this contest will provide clarity on how the rest of conference play is likely to go.
NEC Women’s Volleyball Power Rankings (Week 5)
1. FDU (8-5)
FDU remains in the top spot after another impressive performance, sweeping Saint Peter’s to extend their winning streak to four matches. Eleonora Tosi continues to be a standout, ranking in the NEC’s top 10 in both kills and hitting percentage. The Knights are playing some of their best volleyball right now, and they’re poised for a strong start as they enter conference play. FDU was projected to finish third in conference pre-season, but right now they’re looking like they could even exceed those expectations.
Key Player: Eleonora Tosi (2.59 kills/set, .296 hitting percentage)
2. Chicago State (4-8)
Chicago State holds onto second place as they prepare for NEC play. Despite a challenging non-conference schedule, the Cougars have shown flashes of brilliance, led by the dynamic duo of Patrycja Lagida and Julieta Sandez. Their potential remains high, and they’ll be eager to make a statement when they return to the court. They hung with good competition well in the non-conference slate; now’s their chance to prove they can hang around with their new conference.
Key Player: Patrycja Lagida (3.13 kills/set, 3.47 points/set)
3. Saint Francis U (4-8)
Saint Francis U has all the tools to make a deep run in NEC play, led by offensive powerhouses Maggie Hogan and Korrin Burns. After a well-earned break, the Red Flash are gearing up for a highly anticipated NEC opener against LIU in what promises to be one of the games of the weekend. With a strong start, SFU can quickly climb the standings and get back to that pre-season #1 ranking.
Key Player: Korrin Burns (3.81 kills/set)
4. Stonehill (4-8)
Stonehill continues to rise after a solid showing last week, splitting a doubleheader against Assumption that they could have swept in straight sets had things gone just a hair differently. Mia Berardino’s consistency at the net has been key for the Skyhawks, who are finding their rhythm just in time for NEC play. Stonehill’s potential to make noise in the conference is undeniable, and there’s plenty to be said about peaking at the right time as league play begins, as well as learning from matches like the second half of the doubleheader against Assumption last week.
Key Player: Mia Berardino (3.00 kills/set, .264 hitting percentage)
5. Central Connecticut (2-10)
Central Connecticut may not have played last week, but they’ve shown plenty of promise through strong individual performances from Lauren Milani and Weronika Poczynek in the early part of the season. With their non-conference schedule behind them and a Rookie of the Week winner like Olivia Keckler with a bright future ahead, the Blue Devils are poised to start fresh in NEC play and could surprise some teams along the way.
Key Player: Lauren Milani (0.50 aces/set)
6. LIU (2-12)
LIU has faced some tough non-conference opponents (brutal may be the better word choice here), but the Sharks are primed for a resurgence. With the league’s top defensive player in Alasha Colon anchoring their backline, LIU has the talent to turn things around. Look for the Sharks to come out strong in their NEC opener against preseason favorite Saint Francis U in what will be a thrilling matchup. Remember- the Sharks were predicted to be preseason #2. It’d be foolhardy to count them out just yet.
Key Player: Alasha Colon (4.69 digs/set)
7. Le Moyne (1-9)
Le Moyne joined most of the conference in a quiet week, but there’s every reason to believe they’re ready to turn the corner. Le Moyne certainly isn’t short on talent. With Hayley Gerken and freshmen like Jordyn Hamlin and Brooke Menke leading the offense, the Dolphins are looking forward to hitting their stride as NEC play begins. Fans should keep an eye on this team as they continue to develop and improve throughout the season.
Key Player: Brooke Menke (2.58 digs/game)
8. Mercyhurst (1-9)
Mercyhurst remains a team full of potential as they navigate the transition to D1. While their non-conference schedule hasn’t been easy on them, Paige Miller has emerged as a consistent force at the net and one of the NEC’s best players. The Lakers are working hard to find their groove and will be looking to make a strong push as they head into NEC competition.
Key Player: Paige Miller (2.73 kills/set)
Final Thoughts:
As we head into NEC play, FDU has established themselves as the team to beat, but don’t count out Chicago State or Saint Francis U, both of whom are loaded with talent and ready to make waves. Stonehill is a team on the rise, while LIU is looking to bounce back strong in a crucial opening match against SFU this weekend. With so much talent across the board, the NEC season is shaping up to be exciting from start to finish!
Stonehill Skyhawks Volleyball Games of the Week Recap
The Stonehill Skyhawks nearly pulled off a sweep during their Saturday doubleheader at Assumption University, coming just short in the second match. They opened the day with an impressive 3-0 win (31-29, 25-19, 25-16) before dropping a hard-fought five-set battle in the second match (25-20, 25-15, 14-25, 23-25, 13-15). Stonehill showed grit and potential, putting them in a strong position as they prepare to open NEC play next week at home.
Match 1 Recap: Stonehill 3, Assumption 0 (31-29, 25-19, 25-16)
The Skyhawks started the day with a dominant performance, sweeping Assumption in straight sets. The first set was particularly thrilling, with 15 ties and Stonehill coming out on top in a marathon 31-29 win, thanks to junior Mia Berardino’s three consecutive kills to close it out. Senior Emma Graves led the offensive charge with a season-high 12 kills and an outstanding .435 hitting percentage.
Freshman Paloma Gonzalez Jaramillo, junior Abby Farrell, and Berardino each contributed 10 points in the win. Farrell's clean play was a highlight—she recorded 10 kills with zero errors, boasting an exceptional .769 hitting percentage. Stonehill's defense was anchored by Berardino’s career-high 18 digs, while the duo of sophomore setters Amaya Parnell and Maddie Schamaun combined for 47 assists.
Match 2 Recap: Assumption 3, Stonehill 2 (25-20, 25-15, 14-25, 23-25, 13-15)
The second match was a rollercoaster that saw Stonehill dominate the first two sets but ultimately fall in five. Berardino was once again the standout, tallying 16 points and 15 digs. Graves and Gonzalez Jaramillo also contributed 13 kills apiece, while Farrell continued her efficient play, adding 10 kills and two aces with a team-high .529 hitting percentage.
After jumping out to a 2-0 set lead, Stonehill looked poised to sweep the day. However, Assumption fought back, winning the third set before eking out close wins in the final two frames. Despite the loss, there were bright spots, including Schamaun’s career-high 29 assists and sophomore Sarah Frager’s service ace that helped Stonehill control the second set.
Stonehill came so close to finishing off a perfect Saturday. Had they held on in the fifth set, they would have entered NEC play with exta momentum and a 5 wins to their credit. Nevertheless, their play this weekend, especially from leaders like Berardino, Graves, and Farrell, shows promise. The Skyhawks' ability to dig deep in critical moments, like in their marathon first set win of Match 1, will serve them well moving forward. They’ll need to add some more consistency with closing out games as the season progresses to make the conference tournament, but this group can certainly achieve that.
Looking Ahead: Mercyhurst
The Skyhawks return to Merkert Gymnasium next weekend to open Northeast Conference play against Mercyhurst University. This matchup is set to be a thriller, with standout players Mia Berardino and Mercyhurst’s Paige Miller facing off. These are two of the most exciting athletes in the NEC, and their battle will be worth tuning in for on NEC Front Row.
Stay tuned to NEC Blitz for all your volleyball coverage as the Skyhawks look to make a splash in conference play!
Games of the Weekend Preview: Stonehill vs. Assumption
There’s not a lot of NEC Volleyball this weekend, but the Northeast Conference has a doubleheader matchup when Stonehill takes on Assumption from their former conference, the NE-10. Stonehill will be looking to get some momentum and some more wins under their belt before they embark on conference play, which is finally just around the corner for the league.
The Skyhawks and the Greyhounds will be facing off in a pair of matches that are set to challenge both squads. Stonehill comes in with a 3-7 record, while Assumption is 3-8, making this a key showdown for both teams looking to gain confidence as the season progresses. For the Skyhawks, these are critical tune-ups before the real season begins.
Stonehill's top performers this season include Mia Berardino, who leads the team with 70 kills and a .274 hitting percentage. Her offensive power, paired with the Amaya Parnell (167 assists and a solid 4.64 assists per set), will be essential for Stonehill to control the game against Assumption. Georgia Murphy has also been a key contributor, tallying 65 kills.
Assumption University, competing in Division II's NE-10 conference where Stonehill previously played, will be hungry for a win on their home court. Stonehill will need to stay sharp in both matches to secure victories. With both teams having similar records, these games will be hard-fought battles, and Stonehill’s ability to limit errors and take advantage of Assumption’s weaknesses will be crucial.
The first game kicks off at 11:00 AM, with the second immediately following at 1:30 PM. Stonehill will look to come out strong and take control early, relying on their experienced players to lead the way. If they can stay consistent and execute their game plan, they have a great chance to come away with two important wins in Worcester before heading into NEC competition.
NEC Blitz Week 4 Women’s Volleyball Power Rankings
With several key matches in the past week, we’ve seen some movement across the board.
1. FDU (8-5)
FDU claims the top spot after a dominant week, winning four straight matches. Eleonora Tosi continues to shine with 2.59 kills/set and a .296 hitting percentage, while Hannah Schmidt’s 5.78 assists per set are propelling the Knights’ balanced attack. Their latest victories over George Mason and Morgan State solidify their position as the team to beat heading into NEC play. It might be a good time to remind you that we’ll be on campus to cover when FDU takes on Saint Francis in Loretto, PA!
Key Player: Eleonora Tosi (2.59 kills/set, .296 hitting percentage)
2. Chicago State (4-8)
Despite their three-match losing streak, Chicago State holds steady at number two. Their earlier form keeps them near the top, with Patrycja Lagida still a force, averaging 3.13 kills/set. Julieta Sandez continues to be dominant in both hitting percentage (.319) and blocks, but they’ll need to bounce back in the coming week.
Key Player: Patrycja Lagida (3.13 kills/set, 3.47 points/set)
3. Saint Francis U (4-8)
Saint Francis had an up-and-down week, managing a solid win over Indiana State but dropping matches against Purdue Fort Wayne and Eastern Michigan. It was just enough to keep them at number 3. Maggie Hogan remains their offensive leader, ranking second in the NEC in points per set (3.89), and Korrin Burns continues to be impactful.
Key Player: Maggie Hogan (3.38 kills/set, 3.89 points/set)
4. LIU (2-11)
LIU threatens to move up after snapping their losing streak with a 3-0 sweep over Iona. Despite earlier losses to Bryant and St. John’s, Camelia Melendez and Alasha Colon remain crucial for the Sharks. Colon leads the NEC with 4.68 digs/set, anchoring their defense. The win gives them some much-needed momentum before conference play starts. We’ve said it before: buy stock in the Sharks now.
Key Player: Alasha Colon (4.68 digs/set)
5. Central Connecticut (2-10)
Central Connecticut struggled this past week, falling in straight sets to Bryant, UConn, New Hampshire, and Brown. However, they showed earlier signs of potential last Tuesday with their strong play from Lauren Milani, who ranks fifth in the NEC with 0.50 service aces per set. With a challenging non-conference slate behind them, CCSU looks to regroup for NEC play.
Key Player: Lauren Milani (2.80 kills/set, 0.50 aces/set)
6. Stonehill (3-7)
Stonehill sinks a hair down to sixth due to not playing last week. Mia Berardino remains their offensive leader, averaging 2.92 kills/set, and their balanced attack makes them a threat in conference matchups. With just a few games left before they get set for NEC play, Stonehill will be looking to make a jump in the standings to ride into league play with momentum.
Key Player: Mia Berardino (2.92 kills/set, .274 hitting percentage)
7. Le Moyne (1-9)
Le Moyne continues to struggle, now having lost five straight matches, including their most recent defeat against Binghamton, and unfortunately weren’t able to pick up positive momentum from winning their first match. Le Moyne will need to turn things around quickly as they prepare for NEC competition.
Key Player: Hayley Gerken (5.03 assists/set)
8. Mercyhurst (1-9)
Mercyhurst remains at the bottom after extending their losing streak to six matches. Paige Miller has shown promise, averaging 2.73 kills/set, but the team has struggled to find consistency. Right now, the Lakers just haven’t shown that they’ll be able to keep afloat when conference play starts. They’ll need to shore up their defense and offense to compete.
Key Player: Paige Miller (2.73 kills/set)
Final Thoughts:
FDU is heading into conference play on fire, with Chicago State still looming as a top contender despite their current slump. Saint Francis U and LIU are rounding into form, while Central Connecticut and Stonehill look like they could make some noise once the NEC slate begins. Le Moyne and Mercyhurst will need to focus on improving their overall play to compete with the top teams.
LIU Ends Weekend in Queens on a High Note, Sweeping Iona
LIU Volleyball faced a tough weekend, going 1-2 in their trio of matches, but the Sharks finished strong with a 3-0 sweep over Iona in their final match in Queens. Despite losses to Bryant and St. John’s, LIU showed resilience and improvement, especially in their decisive victory to close out the weekend.
Game 1: Bryant Defeats LIU (3-1)
Score: Bryant 3, LIU 1 (25-20, 23-25, 25-20, 26-24)
In their first match of the weekend, LIU faced off against a strong Bryant team. LIU dropped the match 3-1 but showed competitiveness, especially in the second and fourth sets.
Set 1: Bryant took the opening set 25-20, outpacing LIU with 18 kills and a .268 hitting percentage. LIU struggled to find consistency, committing four errors on 50 attempts, leading to a .220 attack percentage.
Set 2: LIU responded well in the second set, edging Bryant 25-23. The Sharks relied on their defense and limited Bryant to a .111 hitting percentage, while key kills from Camelia Melendez and Iremnur Elmas helped secure the set.
Set 3: Bryant bounced back in the third set, winning 25-20. LIU struggled offensively, hitting only .089 with six errors. Bryant’s offense, led by Celine Mukura, proved too much for the Sharks, who couldn’t maintain the momentum from the second set.
Set 4: The fourth set was the closest of the match, with Bryant narrowly winning 26-24. LIU played their best volleyball of the day, hitting .222 and matching Bryant kill-for-kill, but critical errors down the stretch allowed Bryant to secure the match.
Game 2: St. John's Sweeps LIU (3-0)
Score: St. John's 3, LIU 0 (25-20, 25-23, 25-18)
In their second match, LIU faced off against St. John's, a Big East powerhouse. The Sharks were swept 3-0 but played with heart, especially in the second set, where they pushed the Red Storm to the brink.
Set 1: LIU started slowly, hitting just .103 in the first set, as St. John’s took advantage of seven errors to win 25-20. The Red Storm were led by Erin Jones, who had 17 kills and hit .243 for the match.
Set 2: LIU’s strongest showing came in the second set, where they kept pace with St. John's and nearly forced a fourth set. The Sharks hit .243 in the set, their highest percentage of the match, but fell just short, losing 25-23.
Set 3: St. John’s closed out the match with a dominant 25-18 win. LIU’s offense faltered, hitting a match-low -.148 with nine errors. The Red Storm capitalized, securing the sweep.
Game 3: LIU Sweeps Iona (3-0)
Score: LIU 3, Iona 0 (25-11, 25-18, 25-19)
The Sharks ended the weekend on a high note, sweeping Iona in three sets for a much-needed victory. LIU controlled the match from start to finish, showcasing their potential with strong offense, defense, and serving.
Set 1: LIU came out firing in the first set, dominating Iona 25-11. The Sharks hit .524 as a team and were led by Bria Plante and Jordan MacDonald, who combined for seven kills in the set. LIU’s defense was equally impressive, holding Iona to a low hitting percentage.
Set 2: In the second set, LIU continued to apply pressure, winning 25-18. Selina Koc distributed the ball well while Iremnur, Elmas, and MacDonald continued to lead the offensive charge. LIU’s blocking was a key factor, with Plante and MacDonald combining for six total blocks.
Set 3: LIU closed out the match with a 25-19 win in the third set. The Sharks’ defense stifled Iona’s attack. LIU’s balanced offense featured contributions from multiple players, with Elmas and MacDonald delivering the key points to finish the sweep.
Takeaways from the Weekend:
LIU showed resilience despite a 1-2 record over the weekend, highlighted by their strong finish against Iona. While the losses to Bryant and St. John's exposed some areas for improvement, the Sharks demonstrated their potential, especially in the sweep of Iona. The balanced play of MacDonald, Elmas, and Plante, combined with the consistent setting of Koc, positions LIU well as they head into NEC play.
Following the strong performances against top squads and an easy dispatch of Iona, LIU- a very tough team to read on the season- has shown that their early season record has been in large part due to the brutal non-conference schedule they’ve faced. They’ve got one game at Binghamton before they dive into NEC play. Expect the Sharks to take a bite out of the rest of the NEC, and buy stock now- this is a contender for the NEC Championship and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
Game of the Weekend: LIU Takes on Three in Queens
For this weekend’s "Game of the Weekend," we're shifting our focus to LIU women's volleyball as they finally catch a break from the powerhouse schools they've been facing and turn their attention to some challenging but more evenly matched opponents in Queens, NY. These upcoming matchups will truly test whether LIU has the ability to capitalize on their tough early-season competition and show their strength against Bryant, St. John's, and Iona.
LIU kicks off the weekend with a match against Bryant on September 20 at 1:00 PM, followed by a tough evening matchup against St. John’s at 7:00 PM, and they close the weekend facing Iona on September 21 at 5:00 PM.
LIU’s key players to watch include Bria Plante, who continues to be a force at the net. With a hitting percentage of .321 and 55 kills on the season, she's one of the top attackers in the conference. She’s also leading in blocks with an average of 1.03 blocks per set, proving her ability to control both offense and defense. Selina Koc has been effective as a setter, with 155 assists and an average of 5.00 per set. Her ability to spread the ball will be crucial in this series. Alasha Colon has been dominant in the back row, leading the team with 151 digs, which averages out to 4.58 digs per set. She’s a key player in stabilizing the defense.
Their opponents include Bryant, who has been solid this season, currently holding a 9-2 record and riding a five-game winning streak. They'll be confident going into this match, and LIU will have to bring their best performance. St. John's also poses a tough challenge, sitting at 7-3. After taking down Princeton and Duke last week, they’re coming off a loss to powerhouse Penn State, who is ranked #3 in the nation. It should be noted that their rival, Pitt, is ranked #1. This will be a good measuring stick for LIU to see if they can hang with top-tier opponents. Iona, though struggling at 1-8, should not be overlooked. They’ve had a tough schedule and are desperate to turn things around. LIU will need to stay focused and avoid a letdown in this final match of the weekend.
With this strong slate of matchups, fans will get to see if LIU can turn the corner and make some noise in these games. These are must-watch contests for those following the NEC closely, and with the team having been tested by top schools, we’ll see if they can now turn that experience into victories against solid competition.
The Blue Devils Are Heating Up: Second Straight Win for Central Connecticut
Central Connecticut picked up their second consecutive victory with a strong showing against Saint Peter's, winning at home in Hard Hittin’ New Britain in straight sets to improve to 2-6 on the season. The Blue Devils have begun to catch fire. Their latest win showcased a balanced team effort, led by standout performances from Olivia Keckler and Weronika Poczynek. They’ve now won 5 straight sets as a result.
Keckler, the reigning NEC Rookie of the Week, lived up to her billing with a game-high 12 kills and an impressive .458 hitting percentage. She was a constant force at the net, delivering in key moments to keep the momentum firmly in CCSU's favor. Poczynek also contributed heavily to the Blue Devils' attack, adding 11 kills of her own while recording a .162 hitting percentage.
CCSU’s offense was well-orchestrated by setter Larissa Hiemer, who posted 31 assists and chipped in 2 service aces. Her ability to distribute the ball effectively allowed multiple players to get involved in the attack. Lauren Milani also had a standout all-around performance with 6 kills, 8 digs, and 3 service aces, showcasing her versatility on the court.
Defensively, the Blue Devils held strong, with Kaylin Hadley adding 5 blocks, while Keckler and Poczynek contributed to key defensive moments that kept Saint Peter's at bay. The Blue Devils took control early in each set and never looked back, closing out each frame with authority.
With this win, CCSU appears to be hitting their stride at the perfect time. Their confidence looks to be growing and they’re gelling as a team with NEC play now just around the corner. Keckler is emerging as a force and the Blue Devils, picked fifth by media in the pre-season, look poised to make some noise if they can continue to stay hot.
Mercyhurst Flashes Promise in Loss at Duquesne
In a closely contested match, Mercyhurst showed plenty of fight against a strong Duquesne squad, but ultimately fell in straight sets. The Lakers were right on the verge of taking the second set, holding a 23-22 lead before Duquesne rallied to claim the set and momentum in the match. Despite the outcome, the Lakers demonstrated resilience and determination, pushing Duquesne to the limit, especially in that thrilling second frame.
Paige Miller continued to be a focal point for Mercyhurst's offense, leading the team with 8 kills and stepping up in key moments to keep the Lakers within striking distance. Miller was supported by Andrea Zaric, who had a standout performance with 5 kills on an efficient .357 hitting percentage. Esra Akcay also made her presence felt, contributing 3 kills as the Lakers looked to spread their attack and challenge Duquesne’s defense.
In that pivotal second set, the Lakers showcased their grit, exchanging points with Duquesne throughout. A service ace from Alia Mastromatteo and kills from Zaric and Miller helped Mercyhurst stay neck-and-neck with the Dukes, eventually giving the Lakers a late lead and a chance to tie up the match. However, Duquesne showed plenty of fight and was able to shift the momentum. The Dukes rally was successful and they went on to secure the set 25-23. Unfortunately, it would be the closest the Lakers would get to securing a set for the entire match. With the loss of the set, Mercyhurst’s momentum stalled and they were unable to show the same offensive firepower in the third and final set.
Although Mercyhurst came up short, their ability to battle back and put pressure on a strong Duquesne team is a testament to their growth and potential moving forward. With a balanced team effort and several standout individual performances, the Lakers showed that they can compete at a high level. We’ll be looking forward to continuing to cover their first season as they approach NEC conference play.
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.
Central Connecticut Gets First Win in Comeback at Holy Cross
Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) earned their first win of the 2024 season in thrilling fashion, overcoming Holy Cross in a five-set battle on September 14th. The Blue Devils displayed remarkable resilience and composure to stage a comeback victory, securing the match 3-2 with scores of 25-21, 24-26, 22-25, 25-22, and 15-12.
CCSU started strong, taking the first set 25-21 behind a balanced offensive attack. Weronika Poczynek and Lauren Milani led the charge with key kills, supported by a solid defense anchored by libero Annabelle Denomme, who racked up 16 digs. The Blue Devils capitalized on errors by Holy Cross and used efficient sideout plays to maintain control throughout the set.
Holy Cross responded in the second set, seizing the momentum with a 26-24 win. Gracie Reisman dominated at the net, tallying 10 kills and a hitting percentage of .667 for the match, while Gabby Wold added crucial kills to keep Holy Cross in the game. Despite CCSU’s efforts, including strong play from Olivia Keckler, who finished with 13 kills and 16 points overall, Holy Cross edged out the Blue Devils in a tight second set.
The third set saw Holy Cross extend their lead, winning 25-22. Central Connecticut struggled to find consistency on offense, hitting just .061 as a team. Despite the best efforts of CCSU’s blockers, including Keckler and Amanda Tokam, who combined for several blocks, Holy Cross took advantage of transition errors and key digs from their libero, Emma Halstead, to win the set.
CCSU showed their resilience in the fourth set, rallying to take the set 25-22. Milani and Poczynek were pivotal, combining for 36 kills throughout the match, with Milani contributing 18 and Poczynek adding 18 of her own. Setter Larissa Hiemer distributed the ball efficiently, finishing the game with 50 assists, ensuring CCSU’s offense remained unpredictable. The Blue Devils tightened up defensively, holding Holy Cross to a .225 hitting percentage in the set and forcing a decisive fifth set.
In the final set, CCSU surged ahead early with strong serves from Poczynek and key kills from Milani. Holy Cross made a late push, but CCSU's defense, led by Denomme and Tokam, who added 9.5 points and key blocks, shut the door on the Crusaders’ comeback attempts. The Blue Devils secured the set 15-12 and clinched their first win of the season in dramatic fashion.
This comeback victory for CCSU showcased their tenacity and ability to perform under pressure. After dropping the second and third sets, the Blue Devils regrouped and showed strong defensive discipline, coupled with offensive variety, to secure the win. Holy Cross put up a formidable fight, led by Reisman, but CCSU’s depth and determination carried them to their first win of the season.
Game of the Weekend Recap: FDU Sweeps Lafayette, And Then FDU Sweeps Lafayette.
The weekend series between Fairleigh Dickinson (FDU) and Lafayette was a thrilling two-match showdown as part of the FDU Invitational, with the Knights taking both games in dominant sweeps. The Knights showed their grit, stellar offensive firepower, and defensive prowess to claim consecutive 3-0 victories, leaving Lafayette unable to find a foothold throughout the weekend.
In the first game on Friday, FDU put on an offensive clinic, overcoming an early deficit in the first set to beat Lafayette 25-20. Despite trailing 14-10 at one point, the Knights regrouped behind key kills from sophomore Avery Bain and a strong defensive stand, holding Lafayette to a .053 hitting percentage. FDU closed the set on a 15-6 run, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
The second set was all about the Knights' offense, led by junior Kylie Nott, who racked up seven kills while hitting an astounding .875. The Knights’ aggressive attack helped them pull away with a 25-17 victory, capitalizing on 18 kills on just 33 swings. They cruised through the final set, with senior Hannah Schmidt serving three consecutive aces to open the set. FDU built an early lead, with Lafayette briefly tying the score at 10-10, but the Knights pulled away once again, winning 25-16 to complete their first sweep of the season.
The Saturday rematch followed a similar pattern, as FDU once again swept Lafayette 3-0. In the opening set, the Knights jumped out to a commanding 15-9 lead, only for Lafayette to close the gap late in the set. However, FDU’s offense proved too much, securing a 25-20 win with key kills from Bain and a strong showing from the team’s defense.
Set two saw Lafayette take an early 11-6 lead, but FDU stormed back with an 8-1 run fueled by attack errors from Lafayette and three kills from Samantha Wittholz. The Knights eventually pulled away to take the set 25-17. In the third and final set, Lafayette made a push to close the gap, cutting the deficit to just one point at 21-20. However, FDU responded with a 6-1 run to secure the set 25-20 and sweep the match.
Across both matches, several Knights stood out. Sophomore Avery Bain was a consistent force, leading the team with 10 kills in each match. Junior Kylie Nott added 13 kills across the two games, while MacKenzy Ruggiero was instrumental with 11 kills in Saturday’s game. Defensively, the Knights were anchored by Emily Van O’Linda, who had 17 digs in Saturday’s game alone, and Hannah Schmidt, whose aces and assists were crucial in maintaining FDU’s dominance.
FDU’s aggressive play and consistency throughout the weekend highlighted their potential for the season. With their offense firing on all cylinders and their defense holding strong, the Knights were able to make quick work of Lafayette in both contests, improving their record to 4-4 on the season. They would lose a match to Fordham 2-3 later in the day on Saturday to bring them to 4-5 at the close of the weekend.
NEC Women’s Volleyball Game of the Weekend: Lafayette at FDU (9/13, 9/14)
For this weekend's volleyball game of the weekend, we can highlight the back-to-back series between FDU and Lafayette on Friday, September 13, and Saturday, September 14.
Lafayette comes into this series riding high after a 3-1 victory over the ACC’s Virginia Tech, a power conference school, where sophomore Emma Patmon set a career high with 17 kills. The Leopards are off to a strong start this season, posting a 4-2 record and boasting a balanced attack with key contributions from Patmon, Abby Nieporte, and Carol Ulichney. Patmon has been their go-to player, leading the team with 54 kills and also contributing on defense with 47 digs. Lafayette’s impressive win against an ACC team like Virginia Tech makes them a formidable opponent for any team. They also secured a dominant 3-0 victory over NEC member Le Moyne, showing their ability to compete against NEC squads already this season.
On the other hand, FDU (2-4) is coming off a strong showing at the Albany Invitational, where they notched a 3-1 victory over Iona. The Knights have relied on Eleonora Tosi, who leads the team with 69 kills, and setter Hannah Schmidt, who has been effective with 137 assists and leads the team with 10 service aces. FDU was picked to finish third in the NEC preseason poll and with two strong victories already to their credit this season, they’ll be looking to build momentum on their home court as they face Lafayette in this two-game series.
This matchup is a great clash of two solid squads. FDU has the opportunity to make a statement win against a team coming off of a convincing victory over a power conference school, and with both games streaming on NEC Front Row, it’s a perfect opportunity for fans to tune in to what should be an exciting battle. FDU’s Tosi vs. Lafayette’s Patmon will be a key matchup to watch as both players lead their respective offenses.
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.
Chicago State Wins on the Road, 3-1
The Chicago State volleyball team earned their first win of the season with a gritty 3-1 triumph over Evansville on Friday morning at the Meeks Family Fieldhouse in Evansville, Indiana. The Cougars jumped out to an early lead by securing a closely contested first set, 25-22, after Evansville fought off six set points. In the second set, Chicago State closed strong, scoring seven of the final eight points to claim a 25-19 win.
Although the Cougars were in position to sweep the match, leading 23-17 in the third set, Evansville rallied back to take the set 26-24. Undeterred, Chicago State regrouped and dominated the fourth set, securing a 25-19 win to seal the match.
Patrycja Lagida and Zahara Quraishi powered the Cougars' offense, each recording 18 kills, with Quraishi adding 14 digs to her tally. Karly Klaer contributed 11 kills and also led the team in digs with 14. Setter Wiktoria Zagumny played a key role in facilitating the attack, leading all players with 42 assists. On defense, Berenice Almeyda stood out with three blocks, helping to neutralize Evansville’s offense.
Chicago State’s collective effort, resilience, and timely execution earned them their first victory of the season, setting the stage for continued success in out of conference play.
Mercyhurst wins first set, but unable to handle canisius
Mercyhurst Volleyball hosted Canisius on Friday evening in an early-season non-conference matchup. After claiming the first set, the Lakers were unable to maintain momentum, dropping the next three sets to fall 3-1 to the Griffins.
Set one saw Canisius jump out to a quick 7-1 lead, but the Lakers responded with resilience. On the serve of Andrea Zaric, Mercyhurst rallied, with Zaric firing off three consecutive aces to push the Lakers ahead 14-11. Mercyhurst continued to control the pace as Alyssa Krause added an ace and Kaitlin Murphy contributed a key kill, helping the Lakers to a 25-20 first-set victory.
Canisius bounced back in a tightly contested second set. Mercyhurst kept pace with the Griffins, with Kelsie Gaiter-Davis recording three service aces late in the set. However, Canisius held on, taking the set 27-25.
In the third set, both teams exchanged runs. Mercyhurst pulled within one late in the set after a kill from Brice Hansen, but Canisius responded by scoring four of the final five points to win 25-21. The Griffins carried that momentum into the fourth set, quickly pulling away for a decisive 25-13 victory.
Central connecticut falls to fairfield in straight sets
The Central Connecticut State University volleyball team fell to Fairfield in straight sets (25-20, 25-18, 25-16) on Friday night at the Leo D. Mahoney Arena. Despite the loss, the Blue Devils showed resilience, with key contributions from Amanda Tokam and Kaylin Hadley.
Fairfield jumped out to an early 7-3 lead in the opening set, but the Blue Devils responded with back-to-back aces from Amanda Tokam, narrowing the deficit. However, Fairfield extended their lead to 19-10 before a late rally by CCSU, highlighted by another ace from Tokam and six consecutive points, brought the score to 23-19. Fairfield eventually closed out the first set 25-20.
In the second set, the Blue Devils found themselves in a 7-1 hole before Tokam and Hadley delivered key kills to cut the deficit. A block by Hadley led to a run of four straight points, and consecutive aces from Lauren Milani brought the score to 21-18. However, Fairfield regained control and took the second set 25-18.
CCSU started strong in the third set, with Hadley opening the frame with back-to-back kills. A block by Hadley and Olivia Keckler helped CCSU close the gap to 16-14, forcing a Fairfield timeout. Unfortunately, Fairfield responded with six straight points to secure the set 25-16 and the match victory.
NEC Women’s Volleyball Power Rankings: Week 1 Recap
As the 2024 volleyball season gets underway, the NEC teams have showcased a mix of high-caliber performances and tough battles. With LIU dominating the weekly awards, other teams also made their presence felt in both non-conference play and key matchups. Here's how the teams stack up after Week 1.
1. LIU (1-3)
Despite a tough start to the season with three losses, LIU's talent and resilience have them sitting atop the power rankings. Led by NEC Player of the Week Camelia Melendez and Defensive Player of the Week Alasha Colon, the Sharks showed fight in back-to-back five-set matches. LIU bounced back in a thrilling five-set win against Quinnipiac, with standout performances from Melendez, who recorded her 1,000th career kill, and freshman Bella Correia, who earned Rookie of the Week honors.
Key Players: Camelia Melendez (3.39 kills/set), Alasha Colon (4.89 digs/set)
2. FDU (1-2)
FDU secured a five-set victory over Radford in their season opener but dropped back-to-back matches to Temple and Rider. Graduate middle blocker Eleonora Tosi, named to the Cherry and White All-Tournament Team, delivered a standout performance with 21 kills in their win. FDU looks strong, with libero Emily Van O'Lynda continuing to anchor the defense after surpassing 500 career digs.
Key Players: Eleonora Tosi (3.17 kills/set), Emily Van O'Lynda (4.50 digs/set)
3. Saint Francis U (1-3)
Saint Francis U experienced a mixed start, dropping three matches but securing a 3-1 win over Morgan State. Outside hitter Maggie Hogan leads the NEC in kills per set (3.73) and points per set (4.17), proving to be a dominant force on offense. The Red Flash will look to improve their form as the season progresses, with Hogan’s consistency keeping them competitive.
Key Player: Maggie Hogan (3.73 kills/set, 4.17 points/set)
4. Stonehill (1-2)
Stonehill recorded a thrilling five-set victory over Holy Cross but suffered losses to Purdue Fort Wayne and Siena. Junior outside hitter Mia Berardino was the key player in their win, delivering 16 kills and three service aces. Stonehill showed flashes of brilliance and will aim to climb higher in the rankings as the season progresses.
Key Player: Mia Berardino (3.00 kills/set, .277 hitting percentage)
5. Mercyhurst (0-2)
Mercyhurst struggled in their first two matches, losing to UMES twice. The Lakers have potential but will need to improve their execution to turn things around in the coming weeks. Alyssa Krause and Andrea Zaric are both in the top 5 in the NEC for service aces. They're the only squad in the conference that can make that claim.
6. Central Connecticut (0-2)
The Blue Devils had a tough opening weekend, falling to Coppin State and Niagara in straight sets. Central Connecticut struggled to find rhythm offensively, but they'll have an opportunity to regroup with upcoming non-conference matchups. A few bright spots on defense could give them a chance to improve.
7. Chicago State (0-2)
Chicago State faced two tough opponents in Bowling Green and Cincinnati, suffering 0-3 losses in both matches. Sophomore outside hitter Patrycja Lagida provided solid contributions with 3.00 kills per set, but the team will need to pick up their pace to compete at a higher level in the NEC.
Key Player: Patrycja Lagida (3.00 kills/set)
8. Le Moyne (0-3)
Le Moyne had a rough opening week, going winless in three matches without taking a set. Their matches against Lafayette, Canisius, and NJIT revealed gaps in their game, but the season is still young. They’ll look to regroup and develop as they continue through non-conference play.
Final Thoughts
The NEC volleyball season is just getting started, and while LIU appears to be the early favorite with multiple top performers, there’s plenty of room for teams like FDU, Saint Francis U, and Stonehill to climb the rankings. With the season still in its infancy, every match is an opportunity for teams to make a statement and refine their gameplay heading into conference play.
Stay tuned for more weekly updates as NEC volleyball heats up!