Walnut, Calif. – The Mt. SAC Beach Volleyball team enters the new season with experience, confidence, and championship expectations as Head Coach Samantha Neely leads a talented and tightly bonded roster into the sand.
The Mounties return seven players from last year's conference championship squad and welcome eight newcomers, half of whom already bring multiple years of competitive beach volleyball experience. In total, 15 student-athletes make up a roster that blends veteran leadership with fresh talent.
"We have a lot of experience this year, both with returning players to our program and new players coming in with high school and club beach volleyball experience," Neely said. "This has allowed us to progress quickly in our training and feel prepared for our first matches."
That experience is paired with strong chemistry, something Neely believes sets this group apart.
"Additionally, we have a tight-knit team that does such a great job of balancing a competitive spirit and a positive, supportive environment," she added.
Fresh off a South Coast Conference title—just the second in program history—Mt. SAC has its sights set even higher in 2026. The Mounties are aiming to make history once again by pursuing a repeat SCC championship and a deep postseason run.
"Our top goal first and foremost each year is to always do our best and achieve the potential of the team," Neely said. "We have a few 'firsts' that we are definitely working toward goal-wise, including earning the title of back-to-back SCC conference champions and competing in the state championship as a team."
The program's success is a reflection of years of growth since its inception in 2018.
"There have been a lot of women come through the program since its start, including multiple members of our coaching staff, that have put in the work to build the program brick by brick into what it is today," Neely said. "We are very proud of the consistent excellence we've been able to achieve in recent years and remain grateful for the opportunity to represent Mt. SAC well each season."
Beyond the competition, this season brings several exciting firsts for the program. Mt. SAC will host three evening matches under the lights at its six-court beach volleyball stadium, creating a new atmosphere for players and fans alike.
"These night games are definitely one of the highlights this season," Neely said. "Because the matches take place in the evenings, many more fans are able to attend, which makes the atmosphere even more fun."
The Mounties will also host the 3C2A Beach Volleyball State Championship for the first time in the program's new facility—another milestone in the program's rise.
"Hosting the state championship is just another opportunity to showcase what Mt. SAC is all about and share our home courts with the rest of the state," Neely said. "We are excited to host the biggest event in 3C2A beach volleyball."
As the Mounties prepare to open the season, Neely is most excited to see her athletes translate their success from the indoor court to the sand.
"I'm looking forward to seeing our girls find as much success on the sand as they did on the indoor court this past season," she said. "I'm also excited to see our fans and community out at our stadium enjoying the sun, sand and great competition."
And for those wondering whether to attend?
"Bring your sunscreen, beach chairs, sunglasses and good vibes," Neely said with a smile. "We will see you there!"
The Mounties open the season on Friday, January 23, with matches against Cuesta College and Bakersfield College at 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., respectively. Fans are encouraged to come out and support the team as they begin another exciting year on the sand.
STAY CONNECTED:
Follow Mt. SAC Women's Volleyball on Twitter @MtSAC_BeachVB or Instagram /mtsacbeachvball/
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For additional information, please contact the Mt. SAC Sports Information Office at 909.274.4630.