BUFFALO, N.Y. – As the new year begins, the D'Youville University men's volleyball team is eager to return to the court and open the 2026 season.

 The Saints enter the year with renewed energy and momentum as they continue to build their presence within a competitive conference landscape. With a blend of experienced returners and an influx of new talent, D'Youville focused its offseason on development, chemistry, and refining fundamentals in preparation for a demanding schedule.

Head coach Brendan Leong believes the combination of returning leadership and new faces will be a key factor in the team's success this season. "Returning experience and depth is huge for the team," said Leong. "With nine freshmen new to the team, having multiple returners who can inject their experience is extremely helpful. Also, with new transfers there to help as well, it will have a positive impact on the team, not just on the court, but culturally as well." The Saints will look to establish consistency early while continuing to develop their identity as a group.

As the season unfolds, D'Youville aims to take meaningful steps forward both in results and overall program growth, emphasizing high-level competition every match while continuing to raise expectations. Preseason is already underway as the Saints prepare for their home opener on Thursday, January 8, 2026, against Roberts Wesleyan University. "Preseason is about getting back in the gym, knocking the rust off, and cleaning things up," Leong added. "Playing in the fall allowed us to see where we were at and how we can now polish that up before the season starts and be ready to go."