Gulf Shores, Ala. – The Southern Virginia University beach volleyball team capped off its historic inaugural season at the AVCA Small College Beach Volleyball Championships in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Facing strong national competition, the Knights battled through challenging matches, unfamiliar playing conditions, and the excitement of championship-level volleyball, closing the season on a high note.
Head Coach Jon Baker reflected on the experience with pride and perspective:
"The Small College Championship was an unforgettable time. I know these ladies will cherish the memories for a lifetime. As a coach, I need a little time to gain some proper perspective, but I'm incredibly proud. Our team did some amazing things over the weekend. They battled the environment—conditions only a few of our players had faced before—with ocean breeze, heat, and sharp shells in the sand. Not to mention all five pairs played at the same time, and the format requires a team to win three of five duels to secure a match. It was intense."
The Knights opened the tournament against Berry College, the eventual national runner-up. Southern Virginia showed major improvement from their earlier meeting this season, taking three of the five duels to a deciding third set before falling in a hard-fought battle.
Coach Baker noted:
"We played well against Berry but came up short. It was a significant step forward from our first meeting with them."
The Knights faced Hendrix College next, struggling to find rhythm early and unable to overcome the deficit. However, they rebounded strong on day two with a victory over LaGrange College, marking their third win over the Panthers this season.
Southern Virginia wrapped up the tournament with a closely contested match against East Texas Baptist University, narrowly missing a win in another high-energy battle.
Player Reflections
Kami Milius highlighted the camaraderie and community of the championship weekend:
"I love the beach volleyball community, and that was my favorite part of this weekend! Everyone cheering and supporting each other, having a good time! There was never a dull moment. I just loved being in this environment. I have so much love for this team, and for this sport! Loved every minute of it."
Brynn Keeling, reflecting on her experience as part of the Knights' first-year program, added:
"The tournament experience was amazing! I liked the setup of having a day dedicated to the 6s pair so we could all watch and support them too. During the other tournament days, I appreciated having a coach to help motivate us to keep good attitudes no matter what. Charity and I really worked with the wind and our circumstances to pull out wins we didn't think were fully possible. Overall, I enjoyed everything about the tournament and the experience—especially for a first-year program."
With a foundation and memorable competition, Southern Virginia University beach volleyball closes its first season while looking at a promising future.
