With plenty of upside and plenty to prove in a season unlike any other, Vernon College volleyball is set to compete at a high level in 2021. NJCAA Region 5 is playing a condensed volleyball schedule this spring, and a conference title is on the line. However, the NJCAA postponed all fall championships for Olympic sports to the spring and a title shot is on the line.

Vernon is slated to begin its season against Blinn College on Friday, Jan. 22, and the match will be held at Odessa College in the NMMI Tournament.

An NJCAA rule change for 2020 allows all athletes competing in fall sports to redshirt, regardless of how many competitions they take part in. The rule is intended to offset COVID-19 concerns and assuage fears regarding whether or not athletes will maintain eligibility if forced to miss substantial playing time because of factors related to the virus. With that being said, several of the Vernon volleyball sophmores may choose to return for the fall of 2021, but, for now, it is to be assumed that 2021 spring will be their final year in Vernon blue and grey.

The Chaps feature 5 returners from last year's squad and 7 new players, one being a mid-semester transfers during holiday break. The blue and gray also welcome first year head coach Robert Blakely, who comes to Vernon after spending 14 years at the high School and Club level (TexStar).. 

"With the absence of a season we focused on culture change and unity. I feel the team answered strongly and the team as a whole is my standout.

The expectations for this team is to compete and give ourselves an opportunity to win every match. We've put a lot of sweat from hard work into becoming a better team and program. It's time to put all that we are to the test."      - Head Coach Rob Blakely