LEXINGTON, Ky. – The Loras College men's volleyball team will start the 2026 season at No. 14 in the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Division III Preseason Poll, as released by the organization on Monday afternoon.

In addition to their national ranking, the Duhawks are expected to finish second in the College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) after earning 20 points and one first-place vote in the Preseason Coaches Poll.

Carthage College was picked to defend its title, totaling 25 points and five first-place votes, while North Central College checked into the third spot in the poll with 17 points. Both the Firebirds and the Cardinals join the Duhawks in the national rankings as well, beginning the season at No. 2 and No. 18 respectively.

Loras concluded its 2025 season in the conference championship match, finishing with an 18-5 overall record and an 8-2 mark in the CCIW.

Two key returners for the Duhawks this season are Evan Dziadkowiec and Roman Rothermel. Dziadkowiec began his college career with a bang, being named the CCIW's First-Year Student-Athlete of the Year, the Region IV Newcomer of the Year, and an Honorable Mention All-American. The Lockport, Ill. native led not only the conference but the nation in assists, averaging 10.96 per set. Dziadkowiec ranked third in service aces (13) and blocks (35) during his rookie season.

Rothermel led the team in blocks (63) and ranked third on the team in kills (132) during his sophomore year. His impact and leadership in the middle earned him Second-Team All-Conference honors, along with an All-Region IV selection.

The Purple and Gold kick off their 2026 campaign against Benedictine University on Saturday, Jan. 17. First serve is scheduled for 1 p.m. from Lillis Court.