The men’s volleyball team is focusing on discipline and addressing small errors this offseason in response to last year’s disappointing 4-14 record. Junior captain Mario Cielo-Salinas is implementing a rigorous training regime influenced by his club volleyball background, emphasizing the importance of rigorous workouts and accountability.
The team is now poised to compete in the NEWMAC conference, a significant shift from the Great Northeast Athletic Conference, and is adapting to the loss of last year’s senior captain, Semaj’ Byrd. Under Byrd’s leadership, the team faced numerous challenges, losing 10 of 14 matches in straight sets. Despite this, Byrd believed the team had untapped potential.
Coach Ben Read has also bolstered the roster by adding 11 first-year players, increasing the squad size significantly. The practices have extended from two to two-and-a-half hours, and unofficial captain-led workouts will take place in the offseason.
Sophomore outside hitter Cade Ott expressed mixed feelings about the changes, acknowledging that while some teammates are apprehensive, he welcomes the longer practices and increased competition. Both Cielo-Salinas and senior captain Riley Goldman aim to foster a mindset of growth and team unity, prioritizing cultural development over immediate results in their first year in the NEWMAC. Cielo-Salinas emphasized that success this season will be measured not just by wins but by progress and development.
