Get ready, because the Army volleyball squad is kicking off their 2026 season on August 22, heading to Seton Hall for a challenging road opener. This isn't just any start; it's the first step in what looks like a brutal non-conference slate that'll test this team right from the jump, and we're all here for it.
The Non-Conference Gauntlet Is Coming For West Point
After that Seton Hall showdown, where the Pirates finished 6-21 last year, our Black Knights head back to Gillis Field House to host Marist on August 25. Then it's the Black Knight Invitational, running from August 28-30, bringing teams like Iowa, Sacred Heart, and Albany to West Point. But the real fire comes with two road tournaments: first at Texas Arlington from September 4-5, which means facing brand-new opponents in Sam Houston State and Texas Arlington itself. These are two fresh faces on the schedule, so there's no tape to lean on, just raw competition. Then it’s off to the Hofstra tournament on September 11-12. Hofstra, remember them? They won the Coastal Athletic regular-season title last year and handed Army a loss in 2025. This early schedule is no joke; it’s designed to push our team to their limits before Patriot League play even begins. This is exactly what you want to see if you're trying to build a contender.Patriot League Showdowns and Roster Shake-Ups
Speaking of the Patriot League, our Black Knights finished third in 2025 with a 19-9 overall record and 11-5 in conference play. The conference schedule is loaded, with the iconic rivalry matches against Navy set for October 9 at home and October 17 on the road in Annapolis. That home match versus Navy could even move to Christl Arena, a potential shift that adds another layer to that heated contest. Last year, Army swept Navy in Patriot League play, which is always sweet. But let's not forget American. Those Eagles finished first in the Patriot League with a dominant 24-5 record, 15-1 in conference, and they handed Army all three losses last year, including the conference final. That’s a rivalry brewing, for sure. On the personnel front, head coach Alma Kovaci Lee, who's been at the helm since 2007, is navigating some changes. Army graduated four seniors, but they're bringing back one serious talent in junior all-star Juliette Myrick. Her leadership is going to be massive. Plus, we've got 10 sophomores and five of seven freshmen from last year's squad returning, showing a solid core is developing. Coach Lee also brought in seven new freshmen, so the talent pool is deep and ready to compete. It’s a mix of experience and fresh blood that could really make some noise. The Black Knights dive into Patriot League action on September 18, hosting Loyola, Md. That's the first test in what promises to be a thrilling conference race. With Juliette Myrick back and a bunch of new faces ready to prove themselves, you know this team is hungry. Get ready to cheer 'em on, because this season is going to be a ride, and every single match matters for the Black Knights!This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.