The Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) announced the 2026 women's volleyball preseason coaches' poll, predicting the Black Hills State Yellow Jackets to finish 13th. Coming off a 6-20 season, the Yellow Jackets enter the second year under head coach Grayson DuBose with key returning players, including setter Elena Atkinson and middle blocker Peyton McLeod. The team has added seven newcomers, primarily freshmen, including standout setters Aspen Baird and Neva Cook. The Yellow Jackets' season begins on August 28 at the Marauder's First Serve Invitational in Bismarck, N.D.

By the Numbers
  • BHSU finished 13th in the RMAC with a record of 6-20 (2-12 RMAC) last season.
  • Elena Atkinson led the team with 403 assists; Carsyn Mettler posted 159 kills with a .174 hitting percentage.
State of Play
  • BHSU earned the most wins in a season since 2021 and the most conference wins since 2022.
  • The team will face MSU Billings and UMary in their season opener on August 28.
What's Next

As the season kicks off, BHSU aims to improve their standing in the RMAC while integrating new players into the lineup. The effectiveness of these newcomers and returning players will be crucial in reshaping the team's performance this year.

Bottom Line

The Yellow Jackets have the potential for growth this season, but success will depend on the chemistry between returning and new players as well as strategic coaching from DuBose.