Spartans Set for A Pair of Matchups in Fort Myers

FORT MYERS, Fla. – No. 19 Tampa Beach Volleyball hits the road to compete down south following a tough two days in Tallahassee.

About the Spartans: The Spartans are set to travel to Fort Myers for two matchups against Eckerd and Florida Gulf Coast. Tampa enters their midweek duels with a 3-5 record after a challenging weekend at the Seminole Beach Bash, securing only one win with a sweep against Louisiana Monroe. The nationally ranked Spartans are looking to capitalize on these upcoming matches to regain confidence before competing in their second home tournament of the season. Tampa has the upper hand on Eckerd as the Spartans have not lost to the Tritons since 2018, with the last meeting ending in a sweep in straight sets on every court except one for Tampa. However, it will be a highly competitive duel between No. 19 Tampa and FGCU as the Eagles have edged out a win in the three previous matches. Madison Brunick and Keely Hamilton as well as sophomore twins Hailey Wolfe and Nevaeh Wolfe will be key pairings for the Spartans as they were the only pairs to emerge victorious in the last meeting against the Eagles. 

About Eckerd: The Tritons enter their second week of play following a rocky start to the 2024 season at the Stetson Spring Fling, getting swept in four straight matches against No. 16 Stetson, Mercer, Southern Mississippi, and Florida Gulf Coast. Eckerd fields a very young squad, with only one junior supported by seven freshmen and six sophomores. Among the returners includes pairing Addie White and Anna Jupin, who contributed in the win over Wayne State (Neb.) in the Bronze A pool of the AVCA Small College Championships. 

About Florida Gulf Coast: The Eagles sport an impressive 6-2 record, only losing to the No. 16 Hatters and the Ospreys. Prior to the 2024 season starting, FGCU announced the hire of former Eagle standout, Snowy Stokes, as assistant coach. Stokes helped contribute to three ASUN Tournament Championships and 81 victories. The Eagles roster is full of experienced players, returning 11 players from the previous season supported by three freshmen and one fourth-year transfer.