Wheeling University’s Cardinal Volleyball Clinches #1 in MEC North Preseason Rankings!

Wheeling, W. Va. — The Wheeling University Volleyball team is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season. With fall camps in full swing, they recently topped the Mountain East Conference (MEC) North Preseason Poll, after a strong 2024 season where they finished as runners-up at both the MEC and Regional levels.

Last season, the Cardinals faced a challenging start but quickly found their rhythm, winning nine consecutive conference matches after losing their first game. They made a fierce playoff push, sweeping teams like West Virginia Wesleyan and the University of Charleston. However, they fell short in the MEC Championship against West Virginia State and lost in the NCAA DII Atlantic Regional Championship to Gannon after a valiant effort.

Looking ahead, the team is adapting to a fresh roster, having graduated 10 players. Head Coach Christy Benner has brought in an equal number of newcomers, including promising freshmen and transfers. Notable returners include middle hitter Katie Wilking and outside hitter Olivia Batch, both of whom made a significant impact last season. Wilking earned Second Team All-MEC honors, while Batch was recognized as the Freshman of the Year.

The upcoming schedule promises to be as demanding as last year’s, beginning with the West Florida Invitational. They’ll also host their annual Wheeling Invitational, facing top competitors in the region. These early challenges will be vital in preparing the Cardinals for the conference games, especially as they look to bounce back from their MEC Championship loss.

In the MEC North Division Poll, Wheeling earned nine first-place votes, totaling 49 points. Fairmont State followed with 37 points, while West Liberty secured 35 points. Meanwhile, in the MEC South, the University of Charleston took the lead with 57 points.

This season kicks off on Thursday, September 4th, when the Cardinals face Northern Michigan. The team is not only aiming for local success but also hopes to make a notable impact in the wider Atlantic region as they grow and gel on the court.

Recent changes in coaching strategies and team dynamics may bring fresh energy to the season. Experts highlight that building a cohesive team culture, especially after significant turnover, can make all the difference in performance outcomes. As they compete, the Cardinals will be striving to create a strong identity together on the court, which is essential for long-term success.

For more details on the upcoming season, you can check out the MEC’s official volleyball page here.

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