Volleyball Tabbed Eighth In MASCAC Preseason Poll
SALEM, Mass. - Salem State women's volleyball returns to action this Sunday, hosting Yeshiva. Despite only finishing with two wins last season, the Vikings return their two 100-plus kills student-athletes in Presley Shairs (Salem, Mass.) and Bella Coccia (Westfield, Mass.), who finished with 225 and 114 kills respectively. Last year, Shairs was named to 2nd Team All-Conference for the MASCAC after leading the conference in blocks (21) and second in kills and points (277). Salem's top assists leader, Celia Carbone (Lynnfield, Mass.), will also be back to help guide the Vikings' offense after dishing out a career-high 323 assists.
SEASON OUTLOOK
Even though the Vikings ended the 2024 campaign with a 2-24 record, new head coach David Starin is looking to bring a new era to Salem State volleyball. "With a new era beginning, this season is about setting the foundation for the future," said Starin. "We are formulating a culture built on hard work and accountability. I am excited to see the high energy, strong team chemistry, and a relentless drive to compete in the gym carry forward from our spring season, and I expect to hold our team to the highest standards that our talents can take us." Despite losing just two seniors, Salem State returns everyone from last year's squad, resulting in plenty of depth throughout the Vikings' roster.
Coach's Take
"This group brings an incredible energy to the gym every day, and their excitement is contagious. We have players who are hungry to learn, compete, and grow together. Our expectations this season are simple: control what we can control, play with a purpose, and set standards that will push our development to a whole other level. The players will receive a consistent reminder throughout the season, 'Trust your Training'. We will make some noise in the MASCAC as a team to be feared and respected. I have no doubt that you will see the innocent climb of a team ready to grow and compete well into November."
- Head Coach David Starin
From The Captains – Sr. - Ariana Barrows (Danvers, Mass.), Jr. - Celia Carbone, Sr. - Kailey Roche (Billerica, Mass.), and Sr. - Presley Shairs
"This season is the beginning of a new chapter for our team, led by a new coaching staff and a revived sense of purpose. Our goal is to build a strong, united group where we lift each other up with trust, confidence, and full commitment. We pledge to push ourselves and each other to strive to be the best we can be, both as players and as teammates. Following our motto, this season we will 'Be the Change'."
Season Opener
Salem State opens the season at home, hosting Yeshiva College on Sunday, August 31 at 3:00 p.m.
2025 MASCAC Men's Soccer Pre-Season Coaches Poll
(First Place Votes In Parentheses)
- Westfield State (5)- 61 pts.
- Bridgewater State (4)- 60 pts.
- Framingham State - 47 pts.
- MCLA - 43 pts.
- Worcester State - 38 pts.
- Mass. Maritime - 25 pts.
- Fitchburg State - 23 pts.
- Salem State - 18 pts.
- Anna Maria - 9 pts.