Western Carolina's volleyball program has hired Madison Konopka as an assistant coach for the 2026 season. Konopka brings a wealth of experience from her collegiate playing career, having spent time at Jacksonville State and Binghamton. She played a total of 182 sets for the Gamecocks and recorded impressive defensive stats, including 301 digs and 46 aces. Before that, she excelled at Binghamton, finishing her collegiate career with over 1,000 digs. Preseason practices are underway as the team prepares for their exhibition match against Anderson University on August 21.

By the Numbers
  • Konopka has a total of 1,028 digs across her career at two universities.
  • She posted 301 digs and 46 aces during her two seasons at Jacksonville State.
State of Play
  • Konopka joins Katie Butler, who has been promoted to full-time assistant coach, as part of the coaching staff.
  • Preseason practice is currently taking place ahead of the team's exhibition match scheduled for August 21.
What's Next

The Catamounts will kick off their regular season a week after the exhibition match against Butler at Clemson's Big Orange Bash, with their first home game on September 8 against Gardner-Webb.

Bottom Line

Madison Konopka's addition to the coaching staff enhances the team's experience and defensive capabilities, vital for a successful season as they prepare for early matches.