FLORENCE, Ala. (August 17, 2026) – The University of North Alabama volleyball team will host Arkansas State and Belmont this week in exhibition matches at CB&S Bank Arena before opening the 2026 season.  

Neither exhibition will be broadcasted, but both will be ticketed events open to the public. Tickets will be available for both exhibitions at RoarLions.com or by calling 256-765-5466.  For more information on single game and season tickets, click here. 

The official season will begin on Friday, August 28 at the Troy Invitational where the Lions will open against Alabama State, followed by Troy on Saturday and Mercer on Sunday.  

North Alabama finished the 2025 season with an overall record of 14-16 and a conference record of 8-8. The Lions had three All-ASUN selections, all of which are returning for the 2026 season, including last year's ASUN assist leader, junior Kinslee McGowan. The other two are outside hitters, including senior Kendall Barnes and junior Reese Ricketts. 

The Lions also welcome South Carolina transfer Phoebe Reyes Fortunato, who before joining the SEC was an NJCAA two-time All-American. There are eight total returners who played in at least 90 percent of matches last season, making an experienced roster.  

"We can't wait to get this season started," said head coach Tristan Johnson. "This group has done an amazing job of preparing themselves on and off the court. We have created a challenging schedule to prepare us for our first year in the UAC. With the amount of returners we have coming back, I'm excited to see them get to show all the hard work they put in during the off season." 

For more information on North Alabama Athletics, visit www.roarlions.com and follow UNA Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.