FSCJ Volleyball went 2-2 at the Opening Weekend Tournament in Rockford, Illinois
August 25, 2025

Manta Rays Make Waves in Season Opener at Rockford

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FSCJ Volleyball kicked off the 2025 season with an opening weekend tournament in Rockford, Illinois, competing against Northeast Oklahoma (NEO), Lake Region State College, Henry Ford College, and Montcalm Community College. The weekend offered an early challenge, giving the team the opportunity to test its skills, build chemistry, and adjust to live competition.

Friday's matches presented some early hurdles, as the team worked to integrate moving pieces and refine strategies on the fly. However, this proved to be a valuable learning experience. After focused preparation and recovery Friday evening, the Manta Rays returned on Saturday sharper, more cohesive, and ready to compete, earning a double sweep over Henry Ford and Montcalm Community College.

The team's depth was on full display throughout the weekend. Offensively, Sophia Bou-Velez (So.), Malayna Loadholtz (So.), Ella Jonášová (So.), and Zoe Buchanan (Fr.) all posted impressive .250 hitting percentages across the weekend's matches. Defensively, Bri Gutierrez (So.), Lexi Pacheco (So.), Kira Cailteux (Fr.), and Maddie Grace Richter (Fr.) anchored the defense with strong back-row presence, consistently tracking opposing hitters, making crucial digs at pivotal moments, and turning defensive stops into offensive opportunities for the team.

The opening weekend performances set a strong tone for the season and highlight the program's balance of talent, preparation, and resilience. With the fall semester underway, the Manta Rays remain committed to excellence both in the classroom and on the court. The team now turns its focus to the home opener on Thursday, August 28th, against USC Sumter at 6:00 p.m. in The Reef.

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