2024 Women's Volleyball Preview

SALEM, Mass. - Salem State women's volleyball was picked 7th by the coaches in the MASCAC Women's Volleyball Pre-Season Poll, which was released on Thursday, August 22. The Vikings, who finished tied for 6th last season received (16) points. Westfield State and Framingham State split the first place votes with each team receiving four votes apiece while the Owls earned the the top spot with 45 overall points overall.

Season Outlook

The Vikings finished 8-12 and 2-5 in the MASCAC in 2023, finishing tied for sixth and narrowly missing qualifying for the conference post-season tournament. This year's bid to get back into the playoffs will rely on how well the returning veterans can gel with a large incoming freshman class. Captains, setter Eva Haralabatos (Melrose, Mass.) and libero Kailey Roche (Billerica, Mass.) along with outside hitter Presley Shairs (Salem, Mass.) provide an experienced core, who combined for 56 starts a season ago. From the captains, "We want to improve as individual players statistically and improve on our record despite a tougher schedule. Ultimately, win as many matches as possible, while continuing to build as a program."

Newcomers Bella Coccia (Westfield, Mass. - All-Western Mass Volleyball All-Star), Allie Ulmschneider (Somerset Mass., Case HS) and Keira Doherty (Woburn, Mass, Woburn Memorial- Middlesex League Conference All-Star) are three players who should see significant playing time and will be counted on to contribute early.

Coach's Take

"We are hoping that a commitment to fitness and playing during the off-season and non-traditional seasons plays out in building more confidence, individual improvement, and ultimately, team wins. We are carrying a lot of players this season on our roster.  We are no longer a young team.  Everyone will contribute differently. I am hoping that our loyal experienced upperclassmen contribute in a manner that is best for the team and they will lead as expected. We hope game experience comes into positive play for the upperclassmen both individually and as a team. We also look forward to developing our newer younger players for this season and the future."  

2024 MASCAC Women's Volleyball Pre-Season Poll