By Jenx Ervin

The Greensboro College women’s volleyball team enters the 2026 season ranked No. 1, with a roster full of new faces and high expectations, ready to make a championship run.

For head coach Dan Bozarth, leaving the pre season he’s most encouraged by the team’s willingness to compete.

“I think they really enjoy being at practice each day. The level of play has been extremely high and they love to compete,” Bozarth said.

To open the season, the Pride faced an early challenge against one of the best teams in the country. However, Bozarth says the team has responded well and continues to remain optimistic about what is ahead.

This season will look a little different for the Pride as they take a different approach. Last season
the seniors were heavily relied on; this year the team features several new starters including transfers and freshmen. Despite the team’s youth, they have quickly developed strong chemistry.

“The team has bonded well,” Bozarth said. They are just good people and they care about each other. That is very clear every day we come to the gym.”

One of the Pride’s biggest strengths on the court is expected to be the serve-receive component
of the game. Bozarth also believes the team matches up pretty well in the middle.

While everyone has roles to fill, the Pride will also lean on seniors Payton Shiflet and Morgan (Mo) Mayfield in their final season. Bozarth encourages supporters and fans to appreciate watching these two seniors as he considers them some of the best in program history.

With the preseason No. 1 ranking, the bar is set high and the expectations are clear. The Greensboro College Pride wants to win the USA south conference and compete for the NCAA tournament championship. And that is what Coach Bozarth believes what this team is capable of accomplishing — “Championship”