BU Men’s Volleyball Ready for a Big Season
Bluefield University Men’s Volleyball Team Preview: Ready for a Big Season
After a year away from competition, the Bluefield University men’s volleyball team returned to the court last season, showing impressive resilience and growth. Now, with key returning players and a renewed focus under head coach Keven John, the Rams are gearing up for a promising 2025 season.
Key Players to Watch
Some of last year’s top players are back for 2025, including outside hitters Kyle Pietrzak and Mason Lloyd, and libero Colby Mutter. Pietrzak and Lloyd earned All-Conference awards last year, and they bring a lot of skill and experience to the team. Pietrzak is known for his power as an outside hitter, while Lloyd can play both outside hitter and right side, giving the team options on offense. Mutter, as the team’s libero, will be key to the defense, making sure the team stays strong in tough rallies.
Graduate student General Smith, a middle blocker, spoke about the team’s strengths. He said the team is competitive, has grit, and is a very talented group.
“My main focus this season is to try to give as much knowledge of my experience as I can,” Smith said, “while trying to help the team to be greater on and off the court.”
Coach John’s Plan for Year Two
In his second year leading the program, Coach John has made it clear that this season is about building on last year’s progress.
“Having our first returning class is a big deal across the board,” Coach John said about the development of the team. “Last year everyone had to learn everything, and this year we have a bunch of guys that really understand our system and how to work hard. That is probably the most impactful thing our returners bring.”
Coach John spoke about other specific areas of development for the team.
“We’ve been mostly focusing on getting stronger and faster while learning about volleyball systems and terminology,” he said. “More recently, we’ve started individual sessions to help players grow on their own.”
New Conference and Big Goals
This year, the Rams face an expanded schedule of teams in the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC). Coach John’s goal is to make every game count with the ultimate focus on doing well in conference play.
“Our focus is on the conference, and my goal is for us to make every match important until there is only one left,” Coach John said. “Giving ourselves the best chance to win the last match is the focus.’
With a team committed to improvement, both individually and collectively, the Rams are aiming to make waves in the AAC and position themselves as a competitive force. The mix of experienced returners and enthusiastic newcomers sets the stage for what could be a breakthrough season for Bluefield University men’s volleyball.
Ram fans are excited to see how the team will perform, and with the progress they’ve made, this could be a great season for Bluefield University men’s volleyball. Be sure to follow the team at home in the Dome Gymnasium or online for away games at burams.com.
Photo courtesy of burams.com.