The 2021 Misericordia University men's volleyball team is set to open a 16-match Middle Atlantic Conference regular season schedule at Messiah, February 24 at 7:00 PM.

The Cougars were 13-9 a year ago in a season that was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The only head coach in the history of the program, Robert Wingert is in his fourth season at MU. He led the Cougars the Cougars to the MAC Championships in 2019.

"It was really heart wrenching last year when we lost the second half of our season," Wingert said. "With everything that has happened over the last year, we are trying to take advantage of every day that we can. Whether we are training in the gym or getting ready to compete, we are happy to get back out there every chance we get."

Despite the long layoff, Wingert likes the direction the program is headed and is excited about the team's chances in 2021.

"We have been making some really nice strides," Wingert said. "We are a big, athletic group. That is something that has been foreign to us in the past, but we are excited to have some size and athleticism in the gym this year."

The size and athleticism starts with Matt Lavin, a 6'3" senior middle blocker who didn't play volleyall prior to his arrival at Misericordia.

"Matt has turned himself into one of the top middles in our region and one of the most versatile attackers at his position in the entire country," Wingert said. "More importantly, Matt has grown into an excellent leader on the floor. One of the smartest athletes I've ever coached, we are excited what this year holds in store for Matt."

Another notable returner is 5'9" junior libero Conner Westerfield. Westerfield has one of the most important roles on the team this season and is one of the potential game-changers on the roster.

"Conner is the man who makes our team go," Wingert said. "As a coach, you are always looking at your libero to bring poise and stability to the floor, and Conner has that. With a great training ethic and a willingness to receive coaching, we have seen some of his best volleyball in the past few weeks. I firmly believe Conner is the best libero in our region and one of the tops in the country."

Two other pivotal players for the Cougars success this year will be senior pin hitter, Brian Ross and junior pin hitter, Billy Murphy. Ross and Murphy are two of the more versatile players on the squad and their ability to play anywhere on the floor allows the Cougars to be creative with their game plan.

Despite the loss of the program's all-time kills leader Ryan Miller due to injury, the squad has shown great chemistry and constant energy.

"The biggest strength of the team is their chemistry," Wingert said. "The guys on the team all get along really well. The vibe in the gym is great. We have been able to find that balance where we can compete hard, but still have fun while doing it. I think that is really going to pay off for us going forward as we get ready to play some outside competition."

Wingert and the Cougars are taking this season one day at a time and are eager to compete once again.

"Our goals for the season are to just take advantage of every chance we get," Wingert said. "We are planning for 16 matches and we are grateful for every opportunity that we have in the gym."