By ETT 
The Atlantic 10 Conference has unveiled its annual preseason volleyball poll, with reigning champion Dayton earning the top spot. The poll was decided by votes from the league’s 14 head coaches, who were not permitted to vote for their own teams. Here’s a critical examination of the complexities surrounding the preseason favorites.
Dayton’s status as the favorite comes as little surprise. The Flyers have won the A-10 championship in four of the past five seasons and return a strong core of players. Led by senior outside hitter Jamie Peterson, who was named the Preseason Player of the Year, Dayton possesses a formidable attack. However, the Flyers will need to replace libero McCayla Mehigan, who graduated after a stellar career.
Dayton’s strength lies in its depth and experience. The Flyers have eight seniors on their roster, including five starters from last year’s championship team. This experience will be invaluable in a competitive A-10 conference. Additionally, Dayton has added several talented freshmen who are expected to contribute immediately.
While Dayton is the clear favorite, several other teams pose legitimate threats. Fordham and George Washington tied for second in the preseason poll. Both teams return experienced players and have added talented newcomers.
Fordham is an up-and-coming program that finished last season with a 22-9 record. The Rams return their top attacker, senior outside hitter Olivia Tucker, who led the team with 3.78 kills per set. They’ve also added several key transfers, including setter Kelly O’Brien from Connecticut.
George Washington is another consistent performer in the A-10. The Colonials have finished in the top three of the conference in each of the past three seasons. Led by senior middle blocker Katelyn Lefker, George Washington has a strong defense that will be difficult to break down.
Beyond Dayton, Fordham, and George Washington, there are several other teams that could make a run at the A-10 title:
Saint Louis has quietly assembled a talented roster that includes Preseason All-Conference selection Adria Walker. The Billikens have a solid defense and a balanced attack that could surprise some people.
La Salle returns three All-Conference performers from last season and has added several impact transfers. The Explorers could be a sleeper team in the A-10 this year.
Several factors could impact the A-10 volleyball race this season:
The A-10 schedule is demanding, with all teams playing 18 conference matches. The teams that can handle the rigors of the schedule will have an advantage in the title race.
Injuries can derail even the best teams. The A-10 has several talented players, and any long-term injuries could have a significant impact on the conference race.
While Dayton is the clear favorite in the A-10 preseason poll, several other teams pose legitimate threats. Fordham, George Washington, Saint Louis, and La Salle all have the potential to make a run at the conference title. The A-10 volleyball season promises to be exciting and competitive, with several teams capable of making a deep run into the postseason.
The complexities surrounding the Atlantic 10 volleyball preseason poll highlight the competitive nature of college athletics. While some teams may be favored on paper, any number of factors can impact the outcome of a season. The A-10 volleyball race is a testament to the parity and unpredictability of college sports.
