Non-conference season isn’t over yet — the first PSAC matches won’t arrive until September 23 — but the opening weeks have already given us plenty of storylines across the West. Teams are still figuring themselves out, lineups are shifting, and young players are making their mark. Here’s how each program is handling its early schedule.
California (PA) – 6-0
The story of September so far has been California. A year removed from winning only three matches, the Vulcans have already doubled that total — and they haven’t lost yet. Their perfect start has come through a balanced team effort. Freshman Olivia Weiseman has been a reliable go-to attacker, while Lindsey Scammell has anchored the net with timely blocks. Add in the production of Sarah Stephenson, and Cal has quickly gone from rebuilding to rolling.
Gannon – 5-2
Gannon has once again tested itself against a tough early slate and come out stronger for it. The Golden Knights’ depth is evident, with multiple attackers contributing each night and a steady presence in the back row. Their two early setbacks came against strong opponents, but the experience should serve them well when the calendar flips to conference play.
Freshman defensive specialist Alexis Fowler was named the PSAC West Defensive Athlete of the Week after anchoring the back row at the Opening Roar Tournament. She posted a team-best 3.8 digs per set, including a career-high 30 digs in a five-set win over Adelphi, and added five aces and 12 assists while finishing serve-receive at a .930 clip.
Indiana (PA) – 5-2
IUP has been finding its offensive rhythm, and the numbers show it. Jessica Neiman has been a consistent scorer on the outside, while Delaney Concannon has provided another dependable arm. The Crimson Hawks have already shown they can win matches in different ways — grinding through long rallies or turning up the pace when needed.
Pitt-Johnstown – 5-2
UPJ has leaned on the hot hand of Ellie Zuro Cirino, who leads the entire PSAC in kills per set. She’s been a matchup problem for every opponent so far and gives the Mountain Cats a weapon who can swing momentum instantly. With Cirino leading the way and a defense that’s been tough to crack, UPJ has positioned itself as one of the most dangerous West teams to watch.
Seton Hill – 4-2
The Griffins have quietly built a strong start with four early wins. Their highlight came at the Clarion Tournament, where Catie Flohr was named both Tournament MVP and PSAC West Athlete of the Week. Flohr dominated with 49 kills on .358 hitting, while also adding 18 blocks, 19 digs, and six aces in four matches. Her all-around performance helped Seton Hill sweep through the event 4-0, showing they have a player who can impact the game in every phase.
Edinboro – 3-3
Edinboro’s record sits at .500, but the Fighting Scots have shown flashes of strong play. Their offense has produced in stretches, led by Makayla Neelands, and the pieces are there for a team that could make a leap once consistency takes hold. If they can turn close sets into wins, that .500 mark could swing upward quickly.
Clarion – 3-4
Clarion has had some near misses early, dropping matches that could have easily flipped with a point or two the other way. The Golden Eagles have enough talent to hang in with anyone, but turning those close losses into wins will be the key to September and beyond.
Slippery Rock – 3-5
Slippery Rock’s younger roster is getting a crash course in high-level play. The results haven’t always gone their way, but the experience is adding up quickly. Against some tough early opponents, The Rock has battled through long rallies and shown flashes of promise that suggest better days are ahead.
Non-conference play still has another week left before PSAC action begins on September 23. For now, California’s turnaround stands out as the early headline, but will their success translate to PSAC play?
Weekly awards for players like Seton Hill’s Catie Flohr and Gannon’s Alexis Fowler show that stars are already emerging across the division. The real tests are just around the corner.