West Liberty, W.Va. — The 2025 West Liberty University volleyball team enters the season with a chip on its shoulder and something to prove — not just to themselves, but to the Mountain East Conference and the Atlantic Region.
"Our team is excited knowing that this group has something to prove," said second-year head coach Makenzy Johnson. "We've talked all offseason about grit — what that means, what it looks like, and making sure our actions match the standards of our program and the goals we've set."
That mindset was forged through lessons from last season and a spring training period Johnson called the hardest and most focused she's seen in her time with the Hilltoppers. The result? A deep, athletic roster brimming with experience and competitive fire.
West Liberty returns a strong core, including junior Adrie Staib, a versatile hitter capable of swinging from both the middle and right side. Johnson calls her "a relentless competitor and a literal brick wall at the net." Senior Bella Dart anchors the back row after growing steadily in confidence last year, and she'll lead the defense and serve receive.
The Hilltoppers also welcome five new players who bring an immediate impact. "They have a competitiveness that can't be taught," Johnson said. "On the court, you can't tell who's new and who's returning — that's the type of chemistry we want."
One returner making major strides is setter Olivia Beldean, who has improved her consistency, leadership, and command of the offense. "She's her own toughest critic, and that's why she keeps making big jumps," Johnson noted.
From a tactical standpoint, the Hilltoppers' defense — particularly their blocking — has improved significantly. The coaching staff also placed heavy emphasis on first-contact consistency and expanding hitter toolkits, giving the offense more options in high-pressure situations.
Consistency and efficiency are top priorities for 2025. While rotations aren't yet locked in, Johnson is confident in the multiple combinations available to challenge top MEC opponents.
As for the schedule, Johnson isn't circling any single matchup as a make-or-break moment. "Any team on the other side of the net is a test for this squad," she said. "We're focused on our identity and what we bring every time we play."
That approach will be critical during the grind of MEC play, where recovery routines and a one-match-at-a-time mentality help keep the team both physically fresh and mentally locked in.
West Liberty's goals for the season are clear — improve on last year's performance, push deeper into the postseason, and compete for a spot among the region's elite. But equally important are the intangible goals: sustaining a culture built on gratitude, respect, integrity, trust, and confidence.
"I always compare our culture to a sisterhood," Johnson said. "They genuinely enjoy being around each other, and that chemistry carries over to the court. This group is special — all 15 players bring something unique that makes us complete."
With a blend of experience, new talent, and a hard-earned edge, the Hilltoppers enter 2025 ready to take a step forward — and they just might have the pieces to make it a season to remember.
The Hilltoppers open their season September 5-6 in the Ashland Tournament. Their home opener is Tuesday, September 9th against Malone at the ASRC at 7 p.m.
