The Central State Men's Volleyball team concluded their impressive run at the 2026 SIAC Men's Volleyball Championship with a runner-up finish after a tough semifinal victory over Benedict and a championship match loss to Fort Valley State. Since their inception in 2022, the Marauders have solidified their reputation in the SIAC, with notable finishes including one first, three seconds, and one third place. In the semifinal, they showcased their skill with 54 kills and 12 service aces, while in the final, despite a competitive performance, they ultimately fell short, hitting .235 compared to Fort Valley's .427. The team's strong performance bodes well for the future, as they return a solid core of players poised for another championship attempt in 2027.

By the Numbers
  • Central State recorded 54 kills and 12 service aces in the semifinal match against Benedict.
  • In the championship match, Central State hit .235 as a team, while Fort Valley State hit .427.
State of Play
  • Central State has now finished as runner-up three times in five seasons.
  • The team is returning several key players, including SIAC Setter of the Year Christopher Demetriou.
What's Next

With a strong core returning for the next season, Central State is well-positioned for another title run in 2027. The team鈥檚 postseason experience and individual accolades suggest they can build on their success.

Bottom Line

Despite falling short in the championship match, Central State's future looks promising, with a solid foundation and a talented roster ready to compete for the title in the upcoming season.