The Remarkable Rise to Prominence of Potomac State Volleyball

The Rise of Potomac State Volleyball

Volleyball has grown tremendously in popularity in recent years, becoming one of the most played sports worldwide. Even at the collegiate level, volleyball has seen major growth, with more schools adding NCAA sanctioned teams and conferences. One school that has seen the rise of volleyball firsthand is Potomac State College of West Virginia University.

Potomac State, known as Potomac State College of WVU, is a two-year college affiliated with West Virginia University. Located in Keyser, West Virginia, Potomac State was established in 1901 and has been part of the WVU system since 1921. The school has an enrollment of about 1000 students.

In 2006, Potomac State launched its first ever women's volleyball program. The inaugural season was modest, with the team posting a 5-13 record competing mostly against community colleges. However, it marked the beginning of an era for Potomac State athletics.

The Program Takes Off

In 2007, the Potomac State volleyball program began to take off under coach Trina Lewis. With a roster bolstered by talented recruits, the team went 16-11 that season, giving the players and fans a taste of the success to come.

The 2008 campaign was a breakout year, as the team dominated with a 33-5 record. Potomac State also hosted and won its conference tournament to become Mid-Maryland Conference champions in just their third year of existence. It was a remarkable feat that put the young program on the map.

That 2008 season kicked off a run of conference championships. Over the next decade, Potomac State won nine conference titles in eleven seasons. The team established itself as a powerhouse at the junior college level, leading to increased interest and support.

Transition to Division I

By 2016, Potomac State had clearly outgrown competing at the junior college level. With the program's pedigree for success, the administration decided it was time for the team to make the leap to NCAA Division I competition.

The first DI season in 2017 was expectedly tough, as the team faced a higher caliber of opponents throughout its independent schedule. But the following year, Potomac State joined the East Coast Conference, pitting them against DI opponents on a regular basis.

Over the next few seasons, the team steadily improved while gaining experience at the DI level. Though the wins didn't pile up right away, Potomac State was laying the foundation for future success.

A New Coach Leads the Way

Following the 2021 season, Potomac State brought in a new coach in Jacob Albrecht to take the helm and lead the program to new heights at the DI level. Albrecht came to Potomac State after building Neosho County into a JUCO national powerhouse during his tenure there.

In 2022, Albrecht's first season, the team showed major strides, increasing its win total from 9 to 15. Even more promising were the program's first ever DI postseason wins, as they defeated Fairleigh Dickinson and USciences in the East Coast Conference Tournament.

Albrecht also placed an emphasis on bringing in talented recruits to deepen Potomac State's roster. His 2023 recruiting class has been ranked among the top in the East Coast Conference, setting the team up for even more success ahead.

The Future Looks Bright

As Potomac State volleyball enters its 20th season in 2023, the program seems poised to take the next step and establish itself as a true force at the NCAA DI level. With increased support from the college and continued elite recruiting and player development under coach Albrecht, the future looks exceedingly bright.

Volleyball has exploded into one of the marquee athletic programs at Potomac State. The team has brought increased attention, school spirit, and pride to the Keyser campus. Matches at the Potomac State Event Center are packed with students, faculty, and members of the community cheering the team on.

After two decades of growth, Potomac State volleyball has become a point of pride for the school, community, and state of West Virginia. The team figures to be a contender in the East Coast Conference for years to come. Their rise from new program to national power reflects the hard work of the coaches and players who built the foundation of excellence.

FAQs

When did Potomac State launch its volleyball program?

Potomac State College launched its inaugural women's volleyball program in 2006. The team played its first season that year.

What conference does Potomac State volleyball play in?

Potomac State volleyball competes in the East Coast Conference at the NCAA Division I level.

How many conference championships has the team won?

As of 2022, Potomac State volleyball has won a total of 9 conference championship titles at the junior college and Division I level.

Who is the current head coach?

Jacob Albrecht has been the head coach of Potomac State volleyball since 2021. He previously coached at Neosho County Community College.

What is the team's home arena?

Potomac State volleyball plays its home games at the Potomac State Event Center on campus in Keyser, West Virginia.