Volleyball Hosts Two Preseason Matches

CHAPEL HILL – Carolina fans will get their first opportunity to see the 2021 UNC volleyball team this week as the Tar Heels host two matches in Carmichael Arena.

UNC opens the weekend with the annual Blue and White scrimmage at 5 p.m. on Friday, followed by a 3 p.m. exhibition against High Point on Saturday afternoon.

The Heels, who have been practicing since August 8, started off the season with a two-day leadership training before getting back into the gym, integrating the seven newcomers into the team culture.

This year's roster features 20 student-athletes, which includes four graduate transfers.

"I'm really pleased with the progress we have made in only a week's time on the court," head coach Joe Sagula said.

"All of the players are 100% committed and have quickly transformed into a very cohesive group, even with such a large roster."

The newcomers:

Mabrey Shaffmaster, a freshman outside hitter from New Castle, Ind., who will wear No. 9
Carson Overbeck, a defensive specialist from Chapel Hill, N.C., who will wear No. 20
Marissa Meyerhoefer, a defensive specialist from Mooresville, N.C., who will wear No. 24
Meghan Neelon, a graduate transfer setter from Alabama, who will wear No. 1
Emily Zinger, a graduate transfer right back from San Francisco, who will wear No. 16
Nia Parker-Robinson, a graduate outside hitter from Northwestern, who will wear No. 18
Emma Reynolds, a graduate transfer setter from Cal Poly, who will wear No. 19

"The graduate students have all added a great sense of maturity to our team dynamics both on and off the court," Sagula said.

"The newest young players have connected well with the returning core group and together have combined to create and even better team culture."

Due to the impact of COVID-19 last season, the Heels only played against Atlantic Coast Conference opponents and the season, traditionally played until December, was split into a schedule spanning from September to April.

This weekend's matches will give Carolina a chance to showcase its new and returning talent, while also giving the athletes some extra reps before the official start of season the opportunity to play against a non-ACC team.

"I am so excited to see them compete this weekend in Carmichael, put on their jersey for the first time, and take the first steps in building a successful volleyball season," Sagula said.

Players Mentioned

Marissa Meyerhoefer

Meghan Neelon

Carson Overbeck

Emma Reynolds

Nia Robinson

Mabrey Shaffmaster

Emily Zinger

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University of North Carolina Athletics