The Colgate University women’s volleyball team began what has already proven to be an impressive season against Colorado State University, finishing their opening weekend 2-1 and picking up the program’s first Big Ten win against the University of Washington on Aug. 31. The Raiders have continued that momentum, remaining undefeated in Patriot League play as they enter the final stretch before the Patriot League Tournament. Following Patriot League titles from 2021 to 2024, the team looks to extend its reign with the ultimate goal of winning a fifth consecutive Patriot League Championship.
Having added five first-years to the roster in the offseason, the Raiders’ new talent and veteran leadership have blended seamlessly to sustain their dominance on the court. Earning first place in the preseason poll, with junior Milan Bayless named Patriot League Preseason Player of the Year, the team went into the season with high expectations and has continued to deliver.
Halfway through conference play, the Raiders have continued to earn their No. 1 spot in the league as they maintain their perfect 9-0 conference record. Junior Lal Akin was named Patriot League Defensive Player of the Week, while Bayless earned two Patriot League Player of the Week awards, with both individual honors reflecting the team’s all-around success on the court.
Preseason Patriot League Player of the Year Milan Bayless reflected on her third season with the Raiders, pointing to the team’s collective mindset as a huge factor for their continued success.
“This season has been one of my favorites so far,” Bayless said. “We have a group of 16 girls that [have] bought in through and through, so that makes all the difference. I think we have struggled with consistency a bit this season in how we approach practices and games, so that has been what we have been working towards the most — to just be consistent in whatever we do.”
This shared commitment and focus has translated to in-season success, as the team looks to translate their focus and chemistry into a postseason championship. Senior Carlie Rzeszotarski echoed Bayless’ sentiment, elaborating on the team’s mindset moving forward.
“Going into the second half of league play, we know we’re going to be challenged often. I think it’s really important for us to collectively find ways to continue pushing each other on the court and staying focused off the court,” Rzeszotarski said.
As the four-time defending champions, Colgate remains the team to beat, with the pressure continuing to build. The Raiders have embraced the challenge, rising to every occasion during the most competitive stretch of the season. Senior Madelyn Rudolph spoke about maintaining the team’s drive.
“Our team has shown strong consistency and focus through the first half of league play, but we know that there’s still more to give and more ways to grow together as a unit,” Rudolph said. “As we enter the second half, we expect new challenges as all teams give us their best, but this team is hungry, confident and ready to keep pushing forward to achieve our goals. We’re all committed to maintaining our momentum and continuing to rise as we prepare for the Patriot League tournament.”
With only seven matches remaining before the start of the Patriot League tournament, the Raiders are determined to secure the top seed and maintain their momentum as preseason favorites to win the league.
