The Saint Francis Red Flash men's volleyball team is set to face off against Manhattan for the first time in history this weekend. Manhattan, a new program, consists of 13 freshmen and is currently led by head coach Chris Schortgen, previously of Hunter College. As they approach this matchup, Manhattan holds an 8-13 record, having faced several ranked opponents. The Red Flash were picked to tie for first in the NEC Preseason Poll, setting the stage for an exciting clash.

By the Numbers
  • Manhattan has 184 kills from transfer student Kasen Owens, ranking first on the team.
  • Saint Francis was projected to tie for first in the NEC Preseason Poll, having received two first-place votes.
State of Play
  • The Red Flash currently holds a strong roster with notable returnees like Kyle Charles, who averaged 9.97 assists per set.
  • Manhattan's performance has included losses to top-tier opponents, highlighting their challenging inaugural season.
What's Next

Following the upcoming matches against Manhattan, the Red Flash will travel to New York to face D'Youville on April 10 and 11. This series will be crucial for maintaining their momentum in the conference.

Bottom Line

This matchup not only marks a significant moment for both teams but also sets the stage for fierce competition as the newcomers seek to establish their presence in the league. The Red Flash aim to solidify their standing as title contenders, while Manhattan hopes to build on early-season experiences.