The Southern Oregon University (SOU) volleyball team has been projected to finish third in the Cascade Conference (CCC) preseason coaches' poll for the 2026 season, tying with College of Idaho. Eastern Oregon is favored to retain its title, while Corban takes the second spot. SOU aims to bounce back after a season with a 16-12 record, having had to adjust to a new roster after a historic 2025 season. The Raiders will kick off their season at the Raider Invitational this Friday, facing Simpson and Saint Mary.

By the Numbers
  • SOU finished the 2025 season with 16 wins and 12 losses, placing sixth in the conference.
  • The CCC had seven national tournament qualifiers last season, the most in NAIA.
  • SOU received one first-place vote in the preseason poll, tying with College of Idaho at 92 points.
Yes, But

While SOU's third-place prediction reflects confidence, they are rebuilding after losing their entire starting lineup last season. The team's performance will depend on how well they can integrate new players and build on their previous successes.

State of Play
  • Head coach Josh Rohlfing is entering his 20th season, bringing experience to the team.
  • The Raiders return six starters and a total of 14 players this season.
  • Upcoming matches at the Raider Invitational will be crucial for setting the tone for the season.
What's Next

As the season opens, SOU's performance in the early matches will be pivotal for establishing momentum. Their ability to compete against strong opponents, including those ranked higher in the poll, will be critical in shaping their path in the conference.

Bottom Line

SOU's ranking shows promise, but the team's success hinges on their adaptation to roster changes and their performance in key early matches. A strong start could reclaim their championship contender status, while any struggles might impact their confidence in the long run.