South Alabama head coach Jesse Ortiz revealed the 2026 volleyball schedule, featuring 28 matches. Highlights include matchups against NCAA tournament teams Rice and Arkansas State. Ortiz emphasized that the schedule is designed to challenge a young team and prepare for competition in the Sun Belt Conference. The season kicks off against Rice on August 28, with the Jaguars also facing Mississippi State and Georgia State in the opening weekend. The Jaguars aim for a strong performance with a mix of home and away games, including several prominent non-conference opponents.

By the Numbers
  • 28 matches scheduled for 2026: 14 home, 11 road, 3 neutral.
  • South Alabama will face 2 NCAA Tournament participants: Rice and Arkansas State.
State of Play
  • Regular season opens on home court with Jaguar Classic starting August 28.
  • South Alabama will face strong competition from NCAA teams and Sun Belt rivals.
What's Next

The Jaguars will prepare through non-conference matches leading into Sun Belt play, starting September 25 against James Madison. The upcoming season's performance will be critical for building experience ahead of conference championship aspirations.

Bottom Line

South Alabama's 2026 volleyball schedule is strategically structured to build a competitive edge, balancing tough non-conference matchups with essential conference games. Success in these early matches will be pivotal for establishing momentum as they pursue conference titles.