DANVILLE, Va. — The Averett University women’s volleyball team opened its season with the annual Cougar Classic, hosted on Aug. 29-30 in Danville. Nine teams from across the country traveled to participate in the two-day tournament.

Under first-year head coach Emma Nash, the Cougars played four matches, finishing the weekend with a 1-3 record. While the results didn’t meet their expectations, the scores told a more competitive story, with two of the matches going to five sets.

On Friday, Averett dropped two tightly contested matches to McMurry and Methodist. Despite the setbacks, Coach Nash remains optimistic about the team’s potential.

“Our team is very young. With three seniors graduating in the spring, there’s a lot of room for growth in the coming years,” said Nash, an Averett alumna who played five seasons with the Cougars under former head coach Olivia Earles.

Now stepping into the leadership role, Nash brings familiarity and a strong connection to the team. Her transition from player to coach has already made an impact.

The Cougars were led offensively by junior outside hitter Sydney Mounce, who tallied 42 kills over the weekend. Defensively, new starting libero Ella Jabaley stepped into a key role, replacing fifth-year standout Erin Gray. Jabaley recorded over 20 digs to lead the team. Senior captain Dayton Moore orchestrated the offense, leading the Cougars in assists.

Moore, a former Female Athlete of the Year, enters her senior season with a sense of excitement and gratitude.

“I’m most excited about the opportunity to play one more season with the girls and make the most of every moment,” Moore said.

She also shares a unique bond with Coach Nash, having played alongside her for three seasons. Nash was a dominant hitter during her playing days, with Moore assisting many of her kills.

“It’s been great having her as head coach because she knows the game so well,” Moore said. “She was just out there playing with us, so she has really good insight. Her coaching style is positive and predictable, which has been huge for us. We’re all very grateful to have her.”

Following the Cougar Classic, Averett participated in another tournament and currently holds a 2-6 overall record. While the start to the season has been challenging, the team remains optimistic.

With a roster featuring experienced leaders and promising young talent, the Cougars are focused on growth and improvement as the season progresses.