SEWARD, Neb. – Following a seventh place GPAC finish in 2016, the Concordia University volleyball team landed in the exact same spot in the conference’s preseason coaches’ poll, released on Monday (Aug. 14) by the GPAC. The Bulldogs are now two years removed from a fourth-place claim and GPAC tournament runner-up finish during their national tournament run of 2015.
Head coach Scott Mattera’s 2017 squad began preseason practice on Aug. 11. The Bulldogs will have a new identity after graduating a large group of prominent seniors from the 2016 team. Concordia will be captained by senior Courtney Jurgens and sophomore Emma Brand. Mattera welcomed 11 freshmen into the program when athletes reported to campus last week.
The Bulldogs will open up the new season on Saturday when Baker University (12-20 in 2016) makes a visit to Walz Arena. First serve from Seward is set for 3 p.m. CT. In the month of August, Concordia will also be at home to host Bethany College on Aug. 23 and Bellevue University on Aug. 30.
2017 GPAC Preseason Volleyball Coaches’ Poll
1. Hastings – 96 (7)
2. Dordt – 86 (3)
3. Midland – 84
4. Northwestern – 75 (1)
5. Doane – 60
6. Morningside – 59
7. Concordia – 51
8. Briar Cliff – 37
9. Dakota Wesleyan – 24
10. College of Saint Mary – 23
11. Mount Marty – 10