Wednesday, 4 Dec 2024

Men’s College Roundup for March 1

Welcome to March and the first roundup of the new month, where we have exciting updates on the college volleyball scene. In this article, we’ll be covering the latest rankings, key matches, and standout athletes from the NCAA Division I/II and NCAA Division III. So, let’s dive in!

NCAA Division I/II

No. 1 Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon University (GCU) has claimed the top spot in this week’s rankings. With an undefeated record of 13-0, GCU is making history as they reach the No. 1 position for the first time in their 11-year DI program. This season, they have shown impressive strength, winning 39 sets out of a possible 43. Their recent victories against No. 10 USC on Feb. 23-24 solidify their position as a dominant force in college volleyball.

Next up, GCU faces a challenging test at home against No. 8 Stanford for two matches on Mar. 1 and Mar. 3.

No. 2 Long Beach State

Long Beach State continues to impress with their strong performance this season. With only one loss and a 13-1 overall record, they are a formidable team. Their recent victory over Lewis on Feb. 23 showcased their skills and determination.

Next, LBSU prepares for a home match against No. 9 Penn State on Friday.

No. 3 Hawaii

Hawaii maintains their position as a top contender with a 12-1 record. Their recent matches against Missouri S&T on Feb. 22-23 ended in clear victories, with Hawaii winning all sets. They have not lost a set since their Feb. 7 win over Stanford.

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Next on their schedule, Hawaii will face Sacred Heart for two matches on Friday and Monday.

No. 4 UCLA

UCLA has had an eventful week, splitting matches against BYU and USC. Although they suffered a tough loss against BYU on Feb. 24, they bounced back with a convincing win over USC on Feb. 29. Their performance demonstrates their resilience and ability to compete at a high level.

UCLA’s next challenge is a rematch against USC at home on Saturday.

No. 5 UC Irvine

UC Irvine maintains their strong standing with a 10-4 record. Their recent victories against Concordia extend their winning streak to four matches. The team’s consistent performance is reflected in their top-ranked players, including Hilir Henno, who is ranked No. 2 in the nation for kills per set.

UCI will face UC San Diego in a home and away set of matches on Mar. 1 and Mar. 3.

NCAA Division III

No. 1 Wentworth

Wentworth continues their dominant run with a perfect 16-0 record. Their recent match against Emerson ended in a three-set victory. Wentworth’s consistent performance has earned them the top spot in the rankings, receiving 23 votes.

Next, Wentworth prepares for the Cal-Lu-fornia Classic, where they will face Marymount (Va.) on Mar. 8.

No. 2 Stevens

Stevens faced a tough challenge against No. 4 Springfield but emerged victorious, extending their winning streak to 15 games. Their victory against Springfield showcases their determination and ability to compete at a high level.

Stevens will travel to Pennsylvania for the Misericordia Tri-Match with Misericordia and Marymount on March 2.

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No. 3 Southern Virginia

Southern Virginia continues their unbeaten streak, now standing at 15 wins and no losses. Their recent victory against Nazareth in Rochester, N.Y., further solidifies their position as a force to be reckoned with.

The Knights will face Hobart, No. 9 Vassar, and No. 7 St. John Fisher in a series of matches before the weekend concludes.

No. 4 Springfield

Springfield faced a tough loss against No. 2 Stevens but quickly bounced back with a victory over Nichols. Their ability to recover and perform under pressure highlights their resilience as a team.

Springfield will face Nichols again on Sunday, followed by a match against New Paltz on Mar. 6.

No. 5 Loras

Loras enters the roundup for the first time, boasting an impressive 13-0 record. Their victory over No. 3 Cal Lutheran on Jan. 28 solidifies their position as a rising star in Division III. Loras recently secured a win against Indiana Wesleyan on Feb. 28.

Next on their schedule, Loras will face Wisconsin-Stevens Point and Marian before heading to Chicago to face North Park on Mar. 6.

NTDP PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

In addition to the rankings, let’s take a moment to recognize the outstanding athletes who are part of the USA Volleyball National Team Development Program.

  • Trent Moser from BYU was a member of the Men’s U21 National Team that achieved silver at the Pan Am Cup.
  • Kupono Browne from BYU was a member of the Men’s Beach Collegiate National Team.
  • Nyherowo Omene from Princeton was a member of the Men’s U21 National Team that achieved silver at the Pan Am Cup.
  • Ryan Merk from Penn State was a member of the Men’s U21 National Team that achieved silver at the Pan Am Cup.
  • Owen Rose from Penn State was a member of the Men’s U21 National Team that achieved silver at the Pan Am Cup.
  • Toby Ezeonu from Penn State was a member of the Men’s National Team that achieved bronze at the Pan American Cup.
  • Wesley Smith from USC was a member of the Men’s U21 National Team and achieved gold as the Best Blocker at the Pan Am Cup.
  • Caleb Blanchette from USC was a member of the U19 Beach National Team and the Boys U19 Pan Am Cup team, which achieved gold.
  • Kyle Paulson from USC was a member of the U23 Beach National Team and the Men’s Beach Collegiate National Team.
  • Dillon Klein from USC was a member of the Men’s U21 National Team.
  • Jacob Pasteur from Ohio State was a member of the NORCECA Pan Am Cup team and achieved bronze.
  • Shane Wetzel from Ohio State was a member of the Men’s U21 National Team that achieved gold.
  • Kyle Teune from Ohio State was a member of the Men’s U21 National Team that achieved silver at the Pan Am Cup.
  • Parker Van Buren from Loyola Chicago was a member of the Men’s Collegiate National Team and the NORCECA Pan Am Cup team that achieved fifth place.
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That wraps up this week’s college volleyball roundup. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as the season progresses. Don’t forget to visit our website for more volleyball news and updates.