LEXINGTON, Ky. -- Griffon Volleyball will enter the 2026 campaign with a national ranking, as MoWest was tabbed tied for 16th in the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Division II Preseason Poll released Monday.
The preseason recognition comes after a strong 2025 campaign for the Griffons. MoWest went 21-8 overall and 13-3 in MIAA action, earning a share of the MIAA Regular Season Championship. The Griffons also advanced to the NCAA Central Regional and finished the year ranked No. 17 in the final AVCA Division II Poll.
MoWest is one of five MIAA programs represented in the preseason poll or receiving votes. Nebraska Kearney leads the conference at No. 7, with Washburn checking in at No. 8 and Central Oklahoma at No. 12. The Griffons follow at T-16, while Central Missouri and Emporia State each received votes.
The Griffons begin their 2026 campaign with four matches at the Bahama House Classic in Daytona Beach, Fla. MoWest opens Friday, Aug. 28, against St. Edward's at 10:30 a.m. CST before facing host Embry-Riddle at 6 p.m. CST. Tournament action concludes Saturday, Aug. 29, with Florida Southern at 10:30 a.m. CST and Florida Tech at 3:30 p.m. CST.
MoWest makes its first appearance at home on Thursday, Sept. 3, when the Griffons welcome Southwest Minnesota State to the MWSU Fieldhouse at Looney Complex. First serve is set for 6 p.m. as the match opens the Fairfield Inn Griffon Volleyball Classic.
