Volleyball Plays Twice on Friday to Begin 2024 Season
Purple Knights to face SCSU at 1:45 p.m. before taking on Queens College at 5:45 p.m. (both matches at SCSU)
BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – As we approach the first day of classes on campus, the University of Bridgeport's volleyball team will begin its 2024 campaign with a pair of matches on Friday at Southern Connecticut State University. The Purple Knights will face the Owls at 1:45 p.m. before taking on Queens College at 5:45 p.m.
THE REIGNING CHAMPS
UB is coming off one of its best seasons in recent memory in 2023. The Purple Knights recorded a 26-8 record in route to winning both the CACC regular-season and tournament titles. Bridgeport finished the regular season with a 15-1 conference record.
Following the CACC dominance, Bridgeport's season ended with a four-set loss to top-seeded Adelphi in the NCAA East Regional. UB will enjoy a rematch with the Panthers on Sept. 30.
EXPERIENCED ROSTER
Coach Mullin's latest squad brings back a plethora of experience and accolades from a team that accomplished so much last season. In fact, the Purple Knights' roster features a total of 11 returners and seven upperclassmen.
Remarkably, UB's experience features the reigning CACC Rookie of the Year (Hailey Jessen) and Setter of the Year (Jaden Drollinger). Not to mention, the 2023 CACC Coach of the Year, Gary Mullin.
Junior Lucia Tomiello is also back for the Purple and White after being named to last year's CACC All-Conference First Team.
Another recognized player from a year ago, sophomore Grace Presswood, who was named to the CACC's All-Tournament team, also returns this fall.
THE SCHEDULE
UB's latest slate features tough tests across the calendar. The Purple Knights will play a total of eight NE10 teams and five matches against NCAA Tournament teams from a year ago.
Bridgeport will begin conference play on Sept. 18 at Caldwell while UB's home debut will come on Sept. 24 against Dominican.
CACC PRESEASON POLL
The Purple Knights were picked to repeat as CACC champions according to the conference's preseason poll released on Aug. 28.
Bridgeport received 11 of the 12 first-place votes while Jefferson University was selected to win the South Division for the second straight year. Bridgeport beat the Rams twice last season, including in the championship of the conference tournament.
THE NEWCOMERS
UB welcomes in eight new players to the program this fall. The Purple Knights have added seven freshmen and one transfer student (Kenyce Johnson).
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING (Quotes)
Gary Mullin – Head Coach, 10th season:
"We had a successful finish to last year, and we are working to improve a few weaker areas as we head into the 2024 season. It will be a challenge to compete for the conference championship again as everyone is getting better and so must we."
Kelly Andrews – Assistant Coach, 4th season:
"I'm really looking forward to this year. We are coming off a pretty successful season, in spite of struggling with injuries to some key players. We have a couple freshmen that are going to help us out and our returners came back in good shape and stronger. Our seniors are good leaders and will lead by example to get the rest of our squad prepared for another great season. I'm excited!"
Jaden Drollinger – Senior captain:
"I am so excited for this upcoming season as we are the reigning CACC champions. We hope as a team to get to the CACC championship again and make it to the NCAA tournament. I believe this year we will advance even further as we have a lot returning and new additions to the family."
Madison Jongsma – Senior captain:
"Having conquered the CACC last season, we return with a renewed effort, energy, and enthusiasm and even greater goals and ambitions. This season, we're not just aiming for victory but working harder, pushing further, and working to unite as one family on the court. Together we will be able to become a family and raise our game to new heights."
FULL BRIDGEPORT VOLLEYBALL 2024 SCHEDULE & ROSTER
FOLLOW ALONG
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