2026 Volleyball Season Preview: Eyes on Nationals

After one of the most successful seasons in program history, the Montgomery College volleyball team enters 2026 with its sights set on an even bigger goal--a trip to the NJCAA National Tournament.

The Raptors enjoyed a memorable 2025 campaign, finishing 23-5 overall, posting a perfect 12-0 conference record, capturing the Region 20 Championship, and advancing to the Mid-Atlantic District Championship. Although the team's national tournament hopes fell just short, the foundation has been set for another championship run.

With longtime head coach Patricia Westenberg stepping away from the program, former top assistant Richard Carter takes over as head coach. Carter inherits a championship culture and is focused on guiding the Raptors back to the top of the region while pursuing the program's first NJCAA National Tournament berth.

New Faces Ready to Make an Impact

Montgomery College returns several key players from last year's championship team, including team leader in kills Sofiia Mateshuk. However, the Raptors will feature a significantly new-look roster after graduating nine sophomores.

New middle hitter Zina Ashe-Moncet will look to fill the role left by Hillary Malik, while sophomore transfer Makayla Holland will share the starting setter position with freshman Aniya Gallion. The talented incoming class will look to step into key roles and continue Montgomery's winning tradition.

The preseason will focus on building team chemistry and identifying the next generation of playmakers as the Raptors prepare for another challenging schedule. Montgomery will also travel to Rockford, Illinois, for the first time to compete in the Opening Weekend Tournament, one of the largest and most competitive junior college tournaments in the country. The Raptors will open against perennial powerhouse Kirkwood Community College, which finished fifth at last year's NJCAA National Championship Tournament.

"This will be an exciting year for the Raptors. I believe we have built a great roster that will be able to compete at the highest level. We know the other teams in the region have been recruiting great players and preparing for the season. We are looking forward to some great and highly competitive competition." - Coach Carter

Home Matches to Watch

The 2026 home schedule features several exciting opportunities for fans to catch the Raptors in action.

Tri-Match - Saturday, September 26

Fans can enjoy two Montgomery College matches in one day during the annual home tri-match.

11 a.m.Montgomery College vs. College of Southern Maryland

3 p.m.Montgomery College vs. Allegany College of Maryland

Rivalry Match - Tuesday, September 29 | 6 p.m.

The Raptors close out their September home schedule against regional rival Frederick Community College.

Sophomore Recognition Night - Wednesday, October 7 | 6 p.m.

Montgomery College will honor its sophomore class prior to its match against Carroll Community College.

Join the Raptors This Fall

Admission to all home matches is free, and fans can look forward to several themed match nights throughout the season. Theme night promotions and additional game-day activities will be announced in the coming weeks. With a new head coach, a talented group of newcomers, and the goal of repeating as Region 20 Champions, the Raptors are ready to make another championship run.

Pack the Rockville gym this fall and help create an exciting home-court atmosphere as Montgomery College pursues a return to the Mid-Atlantic District Championship--and a coveted spot at the NJCAA National Tournament.