The volleyball season is now underway for the Morgan State Bears led by new head coach Xiomara Ortiz, who hopes to build upon a lasting culture. 

“We have a lot of energy on this team,” said Ortiz. “I think the team dynamic right now is really consistent in looking to build relationships and a tribe [within the team].”

This year’s team is full of athletic experience, as 13 out of 14 players are returning after one season or more. 

“One of our goals this season is to show what we can do,” junior business administration major and outside hitter Jourdan Page, said. 

“We have a lot of skill on our team and we’re going to show it,” she said.

Standout playmakers offensive powerhouses like junior and business administration major Makila Billingsley, an outside hitter who never fails to rise to the occasion. 

Melanie Battle, senior multimedia journalism major and middle blocker, is also one of the many returning players this season. 

She said the team wants nothing but vengeance after only coming out with one win in 14 games during their invitational run.

“For our team goals we want to win, point, blank, period,” Battle said, adding that though the team was off to a rocky start with their conference play, they are excited to come together as a team. 

“The preseason work is really starting to pay off for us,” she said.

Page said she brings her A-game to the court every game. To her, this season will be a proving point for Morgan State volleyball.

The home game will be on Friday in an orange-out matchup against North Carolina Central at the Hill Field House. 

“Getting a win against UMES was a confidence boost for us,” Page said. “We’re going to lock in and continue to keep working hard.”