BURNSVILLE, MInn. - The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference released its Volleyball Coaches Preseason Poll on Wednesday. The University of Jamestown Jimmies were tabbed to finish 12th in the league overall, ahead of Bemidji State, University of Mary, Minnesota Crookston, and Minot State.

2026 NSIC PRESEASON COACHES POLL

UJ played its first season as a member of the NSIC in 2025, finishing with a 10-17 record overall and 5-15 mark in conference action.

"I am excited to see how the growth this year's team has shown over the offseason will play out on the court this fall," said head coach Jon Hegerle.

The Jimmies open the regular season in Rapid City, S.D., against Lake Superior State University on Friday, August 28. The home and conference opener is Friday, September 11 against Minnesota State Moorhead.

Senior defensive specialist Sophie Ketterling was picked as UJ's player to watch entering this season. Ketterling appeared in 10 matches last year, finishing with 82 digs, 19 assists, and a pair of aces, but will be counted on more in 2026.

"Sophie is a high energy and quick defender," Hegerle said. "She has a great spirit about her and leads through example. Sophie is a glue on our team and her humility lends itself to great influence with her teammates."