Greenville, NC, August 29, 2025
News Summary
The East Carolina University volleyball team is preparing for its season opener this weekend, keen to continue its success from last season. With a commendable 19-10 record and a strong roster of players like Ellie Pate and Taryn Gilreath, the team is ready to face challenges ahead. The season kicks off at the Hampton Tournament, followed by high-stakes matches against Power 4 opponents. Coach Adler Augustin has emphasized the team’s strong culture and commitment to improvement as they aspire to build on last year’s achievements.
East Carolina University Volleyball Prepares for Season Opener
Greenville, NC – The East Carolina University (ECU) volleyball team is gearing up for its season opener this weekend with high hopes of continuing its recent success. The team returns critical players, including Ellie Pate, who led the squad in kills last season, tallied 292 kills and 136 digs in 29 matches, and is expected to take on a pivotal leadership role in a smaller roster of 13 players.
Last season, the ECU volleyball program finished with a commendable 19-10 record and marked its second consecutive berth in the National Invitational Volleyball Championship. Over the past two seasons, ECU has demonstrated consistent improvement, achieving back-to-back campaigns with 11 wins in the American Athletic Conference (AAC).
Head coach Adler Augustin, entering his fifth season with the team, has noted a significant cultural shift within the program. This transformation has been credited to both staff efforts and effective player recruitment strategies. Despite the graduation of Fran McBride, an All-American Conference First Team selection, the team feels confident with its current lineup.
In addition to Pate, the team will also rely heavily on Taryn Gilreath, a preseason All-Conference selection who, in her debut season, recorded 353 assists, the second highest on the team, and showed promising skills in key matches. New comer Kai Bailey, a 6-foot-2 middle blocker transfer from UTSA, is anticipated to bolster the team’s defense following her previous All-AAC performance.
New Additions and Fresh Talent
This season, ECU is incorporating multiple freshmen, who have already made an impact during exhibitions, notably setter Katie Schuele and hitters Sydney Buchanan and Teegan Charapata. Their early performances suggest a bright future for the team as they adapt to the collegiate level of competition.
Upcoming Schedule
The team will begin their season at the Hampton Tournament, pitting them against Maryland Eastern Shore, Florida A&M, and the host team, Hampton. Following this tournament, ECU is set to face several Power 4 opponents, including Wake Forest at home on September 16, and away games against Kansas State on September 20 and UNC on September 21. The American Volleyball Championship is scheduled for November 21-23 in Florida, where the team aims to peak at the right moment.
Conclusion
With the combination of seasoned players, promising recruits, and a robust coaching staff, ECU volleyball looks well-positioned to make strides this season. As the season opener approaches, fans are eager to see whether the team can build on last year’s achievements and create new milestones in the upcoming matches.
FAQ
What is the record of the East Carolina University volleyball team from last season?
The ECU volleyball team finished last season with a 19-10 record.
Who are some key returning players for ECU volleyball this season?
Ellie Pate and Taryn Gilreath are among the key returning players for this season.
When is ECU’s home opener?
The home opener for ECU volleyball will be on September 16 against Wake Forest.
What tournament will ECU begin its season with?
ECU will start its season at the Hampton Tournament.
How many players are on the current ECU volleyball roster?
The current roster consists of 13 players.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Season Record | 19-10 |
| Key Players | Ellie Pate, Taryn Gilreath, Kai Bailey |
| Home Opener | September 16 against Wake Forest |
| Season Opener Tournament | Hampton Tournament |
| Roster Size | 13 Players |
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Reflector: ECU Volleyball Season Outlook
- ECU Pirates: Preseason All-Conference Team
- MaxPreps: North East Carolina Prep Volleyball Recap
- Wikipedia: East Carolina Pirates Volleyball
- UConn Huskies: Volleyball Advances to Face ECU
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