Duquesne has come out of the gate firing this season, standing undefeated at 7-0 as they close out their nonconference schedule. The Dukes have shown balance, depth, and efficiency in their early matches, and with the Atlantic 10 slate still ahead, they look well-positioned to build on that momentum.
They opened the season at the Youngstown Invitational with a trio of wins, taking down Canisius, Youngstown State, and Mercyhurst to set the tone. Back at home, they were perfect in the Chick-fil-A Robinson Classic with victories over Loyola University Maryland, FDU, and Robert Morris, reinforcing their early dominance. On September 12, Duquesne closed out the Best Western Invitational by beating Southern Indiana, Middle Tennessee, and Miami (OH), all of which kept their win streak alive. These wins haven’t come against weak competition either — opponents are diverse and Duquesne’s performance has been consistent both at home and on neutral courts.
Statistically, the Dukes are pulling ahead in key categories. Their attack percentage sits around .258 compared to opponents at .159. They’re averaging ~14.1 kills per set versus about 11.2 for their opponents, and have shown strength in serving with 2.4 aces per set while keeping opponent aces down. Ball control and digs are tight — they’ve kept errors low and maintained solid defensive pressure in every match. ({stats} pulled from cumulative team stats) Duquesne University Athletics
Key Upcoming Matchups
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Sept. 19-20 – Duquesne will co-host a nonconference tournament with Robert Morris — a great chance to keep the streak going before diving into conference play. Duquesne University Athletics+1
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Earlier, a tough invitational in Oxford, Ohio (Sept. 12-13) gives Duquesne tests vs. Southern Indiana, Middle Tennessee, and Miami (OH). Duquesne University Athletics+2Duquesne University Athletics+2
Players & Themes to Watch
• Ariel Helm continues to anchor the front row. Her blocking and killing efficiency have been integral to Duquesne’s strong starts in several matches. Duquesne University Athletics+1
• Emersen Schrom has stepped up as an offensive threat, contributing consistently in kills and staying active in both offense and defense.
• Depth is becoming a real strength. Fresh faces and newer starters are seeing meaningful minutes, and that’s helping Duquesne avoid slumps when the rotation tightens.
Why This Matters
With the Atlantic 10 schedule looming, Duquesne’s early nonconference dominance is more than just padding the win column — it’s building confidence, refining rotations, and giving them momentum. If they keep this pace, they’ll enter conference play not just as dark horses, but as serious contenders.