MEMPHIS, Tenn. – One year later, the opponent is familiar, but the opportunity is new. The Christian Brothers University women's volleyball team is heading back to the Gulf South Conference Championship Tournament, where the eighth-seeded Lady Bucs (11-20, 6-12 GSC) will face top-seeded Alabama Huntsville (25-2, 17-1 GSC) on Thursday, November 12, at 4:30 p.m. inside Spragins Hall in Huntsville, Alabama.
The matchup brings unfinished business for CBU. During last year's GSC Tournament, the Lady Bucs held a commanding two-set lead over UAH before the Chargers rallied to win 3-2, ending CBU's postseason run. Now, the Buccaneers have another opportunity to face the same opponent on the conference's biggest stage.
Despite entering as the No. 8 seed, CBU understands that postseason volleyball is about more than regular-season records. The Lady Bucs enter the tournament riding a two-match winning streak, determined to prove that effort, heart and the desire to compete can make the difference.
This season has also been about growth and milestones. Carleiny Morillo surpassed 1,000 career assists, while Sophia Nowacki reached 1,000 career digs. Both accomplishments reflect the dedication and consistency that have helped shape the program.
CBU's senior group has played an important role in that journey. Addison Waggoner, Alma Solis, Alexis Goodman, Jennifer Cuyler, Emily Helms and the team's other veteran contributors have provided leadership and experience throughout the season. Senior Day delivered a memorable moment when Mattie Sewell scored the match-winning kill against Union, sending the Lady Bucs into the postseason with momentum.
Second-year Head Coach Lashaunda Spurgeon leads the program, alongside graduate assistant Giovana Costarelli. Spurgeon helped guide CBU to its first postseason appearance in more than eight years during her debut season and has continued building a culture centered on accountability, development and competing regardless of the circumstances.
For the Buccaneers, Thursday's matchup represents another chance to show their growth. The record may tell one story, but it cannot measure the determination of a team that has continued fighting through adversity.
One year later, CBU returns to face UAH with something to prove. This time, the Lady Bucs are looking to write a different ending.
