The Montana Western Bulldogs women鈥檚 volleyball team kicks off their 2026 season at the Saints Invitational in San Antonio, Texas. They will compete against OLLU, #18 Dakota Wesleyan, Campbellsville, and Saint Francis (Ind.) from August 14-15. Last season, the Bulldogs had a 13-17 overall record, finishing eighth in the Frontier Conference tournament, and they return 14 players, including key contributors like Kennedy Lingenfelter and Jaiden Perez. Head Coach Katie Lovett, now in her eighth year, aims to return the team to its previous national tournament success.

By the Numbers
  • Montana Western finished the 2025 season with a 13-17 overall record and 11-11 in conference play.
  • Kennedy Lingenfelter led UMW with 247 kills and 102 blocks in her freshman year.
State of Play
  • Bulldogs will face off against four opponents at the Saints Invitational, starting with OLLU and #18 Dakota Wesleyan.
  • The team has strengthened its roster with four new freshmen joining the squad.
What's Next

Following the Saints Invitational, the Bulldogs will host an intersquad scrimmage on August 20, 2026, providing an opportunity to refine strategies ahead of the main season.

Bottom Line

With a strong returning roster and fresh talent, the Bulldogs are positioned to improve from last season鈥檚 performance, making them a team to watch as they kick off the new season at the Saints Invitational.