As the Muhlenberg volleyball team gears up for an exciting season, reflections on preseason activities reveal a journey of growth, camaraderie and promising potential. With seven freshmen joining the squad this year, this preseason was a unique opportunity for the team to bond, integrate new talent and refine their play style. Preseason was a whirlwind of energy and enthusiasm for the Muhlenberg volleyball team. It gave returning players and newcomers an invaluable chance to forge connections and build chemistry.
Christina Marcin ‘26, a large part of last season’s team, said, “Preseason brought us together as a team and taught us how to play together.” This period was about practice and drills and understanding each other’s strengths, weaknesses and communication styles. The integration of seven first-year students brought a fresh dynamic to the team. “It was fun getting to know them and learning how to work as a cohesive unit,” Marcin added. The enthusiasm and new skills these freshmen brought have impacted the team’s performance and morale, and the team’s preseason included a challenging trip to California, where they faced formidable opponents; Pomona-Pitzer College, Occidental College, and Chapman University.
While the results were not as favorable as they hoped, the experience proved highly beneficial for the Mules. “Even though we didn’t win as much as we would’ve liked, we saw how great we can play together if we keep working hard this season,” Marcin reflected. The rigorous competition provided valuable insights and underlined the team’s potential for growth. Another team leader, Rachel Jacobs ‘25, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the trip, despite its challenges, was instrumental in refining the team’s approach. “While it may not have gone our way, I am more than confident we were able to get the bad out of the way, and we can only go up from here,” Jacobs said. One of Muhlenberg volleyball’s strengths is its ability to handle setbacks effectively. The team’s strategy to stay motivated and focused involves clear communication on and off the court.
Jacobs highlighted the importance of being vocal and supportive during matches. “Communicating is important in volleyball, and it never hurts to be the loudest on the court,” she noted. Off the court, humor and connection are crucial in maintaining team spirit. Laughter and team bonding activities help relieve pressure and strengthen relationships, enhancing performance during matches. The trip to California also revealed the team’s depth and versatility. “We realized we have many different lineup options,” Jacobs explained. Many players demonstrated proficiency in multiple positions, which opened up various strategic possibilities for the team. This flexibility is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s success as the season progresses.
The excitement and confidence are palpable as the team eagerly anticipates the start of conference play later this month. With a solid foundation built during preseason and a strong team dynamic, Muhlenberg volleyball is poised for a successful season. Under the leadership of captains Jacobs, Marcin and Esmae Oehler ‘25, the team is ready to channel their experiences, learn from their challenges and strive for excellence on the court. The upcoming season promises to be an exhilarating journey for the Muhlenberg volleyball team, and fans can look forward to witnessing their growth and achievements.
