FORT VALLEY, Ga. – The Fort Valley State University women's volleyball team wrapped up its 2026 campaign Tuesday afternoon, falling 3-1 to Albany State University in its season finale at the Health and Physical Education Complex. Despite the setback, the Wildcats showcased their resilience and determination, highlighted by a strong third-set performance that provided a positive note to carry into the offseason and preparations for 2027.
Albany State claimed the opening two sets, 25-15 and 25-16, but Fort Valley State responded with its best volleyball of the afternoon in the third set. The Wildcats found their offensive rhythm, delivering 18 kills while committing just one attack error to post an impressive .515 hitting percentage. Fort Valley State controlled the set, earning a 25-16 victory and extending the match to a fourth frame.
The Wildcats continued to compete in the fourth set, but Albany State regained control to secure a 25-12 decision and close out the match.
Sophomore standout Dakotah Holmes led the Fort Valley State offensive attack with 16 kills on 38 attempts, finishing with a .289 hitting percentage. Caytlyn Sanford added 10 kills while hitting .250, providing another consistent offensive presence for the Wildcats.
At the net, Shamora Scott contributed four kills without committing an attack error, hitting an efficient .500. Scott also recorded three block assists, helping Fort Valley State finish with six total team blocks.
Reagan Mann orchestrated the Wildcats' offense with 37 assists, while also contributing four digs and two block assists. Defensively, Mashayla Collins and Naoma Yancey each recorded four digs, helping Fort Valley State finish with 24 digs as a team.
The Wildcats demonstrated their offensive potential throughout the afternoon, finishing with 46 kills on 121 attempts and a .198 hitting percentage. Their third-set performance particularly illustrated the team's ability to generate offensive momentum and compete against a challenging opponent.
BUILDING TOWARD 2027
Although Tuesday's match marked the conclusion of the 2026 season, the Wildcats leave the court with valuable experience, individual accomplishments, and opportunities for continued growth.
Fort Valley State concludes the campaign with an 11-18 overall record and a 10-9 mark in Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference play. The Wildcats will now turn their attention toward the offseason, where continued development, preparation, and team growth will become the foundation for the 2027 campaign.
The 2026 season provided opportunities for the Wildcats to compete, develop, and represent Fort Valley State University with pride. With the next chapter on the horizon, the focus shifts toward building upon this year's experiences, strengthening the program, and returning to the court with renewed determination.
The final whistle may have closed the 2026 season, but the work toward 2027 begins now. The Wildcats are ready to turn the lessons of this season into motivation for what lies ahead.
