WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – The West Liberty University women's volleyball team will hit the court for the first time in 2025 this weekend, traveling to Ohio for the Ashland University Tournament. The Hilltoppers will play four matches in two days, beginning Friday afternoon.

West Liberty opens tournament play Friday at 4 p.m. against Ursuline College, followed by an 8 p.m. matchup with Daemen University (N.Y.). On Saturday, the Hilltoppers face Indiana (Pa.) at 3 p.m. before closing the weekend with a primetime showdown against host Ashland at 7 p.m.

The tournament marks the first test for a Hilltopper squad that enters the season with depth, experience, and renewed confidence. Second-year head coach Makenzy Johnson has emphasized grit, culture, and consistency as this group looks to break through in the Mountain East Conference.

West Liberty's lineup features a strong returning core, including junior Adrie Staib, a versatile hitter Johnson describes as "a relentless competitor and a literal brick wall at the net," along with senior Bella Dart, who anchors the back row with steady leadership. Setter Olivia Beldean is expected to direct the offense after making major strides in consistency and decision-making during the offseason.

The Hilltoppers also welcome five newcomers who Johnson says bring a competitiveness that blends seamlessly with the returning group. "On the court, you can't tell who's new and who's returning — that's the type of chemistry we want," Johnson said.

Johnson knows this opening weekend will be a challenge, but also a valuable measuring stick.

"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."

After the Ashland Tournament, West Liberty returns home for its ASRC opener on Tuesday, Sept. 9 against Malone at 7 p.m.