Tampa Volleyball Opens 2026 Ranked No. 2 in AVCA‑Taraflex Preseason Poll
The University of Tampa volleyball program will begin the 2026 season with national expectations once again, earning the No. 2 ranking in the AVCA‑Taraflex Division II Women’s Volleyball Preseason Poll released Monday by the American Volleyball Coaches Association. The poll features 25 nationally ranked teams and sets the stage for another competitive year across Division II.
Tampa collected 10 first‑place votes and 1,108 total points, placing the Spartans just behind Concordia‑St. Paul, which earned 18 first‑place votes and 1,142 points. Tampa is one of only two programs to receive double‑digit first‑place votes and one of three teams to reach at least 10. MSU Denver, which defeated Tampa in last year’s NCAA Semifinals, sits at No. 3 with 18 first‑place votes and 987 points.
Familiar Territory for the Spartans
This marks the second time in three seasons that Tampa opens the year ranked No. 2 nationally. The Spartans enter 2026 following a dominant 32‑1 campaign in 2025, a season that ended one match short of the national championship. Their consistency, depth and postseason pedigree continue to make them one of the premier programs in Division II volleyball.
The top five of the preseason poll includes Point Loma at No. 4 with 965 points and St. Cloud State at No. 5 with 916 points. Barry, which earned one first‑place vote, begins at No. 6, followed by Nebraska‑Kearney, Washburn, Wayne State (Neb.) and Ferris State rounding out the top 10.
A Loaded Field Awaits
The 2026 preseason rankings highlight the strength of Division II volleyball, with several perennial contenders positioned near the top. Concordia‑St. Paul remains a powerhouse, MSU Denver continues its rise, and Point Loma and St. Cloud State bring strong returning cores. Tampa’s placement among these programs underscores the national respect the Spartans have earned through sustained excellence.
Season Opens August 28
Tampa begins its 2026 campaign on August 28 in Garden City, New York, facing Adelphi at 10:00 a.m. eastern time. The early road test will offer the first look at a team aiming to return to championship contention.
For the complete AVCA‑Taraflex Division II Women’s Volleyball Preseason Poll, visit the American Volleyball Coaches Association.
