GNAC RELEASE

WINTHROP, Mass. - Following its semifinals showing a year ago, the Suffolk volleyball team has been tabbed to finish fifth in the league according to the 2019 GNAC Preseason Coaches' Poll, the conference office announced Monday. 

For the first time in program history, the Rams have broke into the league's preseason top five after garnering 110 points from the conference's 13 head coaches. 

Three-time defending champion Johnson & Wales, who is ranked eighth in the initial American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Coaches Poll of the season, was a unanimous selection to land atop the league for the fourth time in as many years. 

Rivier slid into second place with 155 points. Six points separate third and fourth place with the CHargers of Colby Sawyer edging out the Sharks of Simmons 136 to 130. 

Suffolk's fifth place finish is thanks in large part to the team's 12-17 overall record and 7-5 league ledger from a year ago. 

Scott Blanchard is back for his second season on the sideline of the blue-and-gold and looks to take his squad even further this year. He will rely on his veteran leadership on and off the court. Returning to the Rams' line-up is senior Sarah Mullahy (0.39 bps, 0.94 kps), as well as juniors Kayla Barbera (2.54 dps, 2.09 kps) and Hannah Fabiano (2.16 kpds, 1.02 dps) 

The 24th season of Suffolk volleyball is set to get underway Labor Day Weekend at the Babson Invitational. Over the two-day event the Rams will serve off against UMaine Presque Isle Friday, Aug. 30 at 5 p.m. before taking on Manhattanville and No. 20 Babson Saturday, Aug. 31 at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m., respectively.