BURNSVILLE, Minn. – Augustana volleyball has been selected to finish 10^th in the 2025 NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll with 110 points. St. Cloud State was picked first with 212 points and eight first-place votes.
 
"This year's team is on a mission," said Augustana volleyball head coach Jennifer Jacobs. "The goal of returning back to the NSIC tournament and making the postseason is at the forefront of everyone's minds and we are determined to get there. This year's senior class has not been satisfied with being on the bubble and they are leading with conviction and chips on their shoulders. We are excited to see the intensity their mindset brings to practices and competitions! We also have a very deep bench and are confident in any of our reserves stepping up to the plate when needed. It's going to be an exhilarating season!"
 
Jacobs enters her ninth season at the helm of the Vikings while 15 athletes return from last year's roster. Four newcomers will also join in for the 2025 season.
 
In the same preseason release, middle/outside hitter Sydney Tims was named as the Vikings' Player to Watch.
 
The senior Sioux Falls native averaged 1.2 kills per set off a .203 hitting percentage in last season's 28 matches played. She led the team with 40 total service aces while adding in .78 digs per set with 111 total blocks on the defensive end.
 
"Syd is one of our most versatile attackers," said Jacobs. "She can swing from anywhere along the net, and she is returning as one of the best blockers in our gym. She also has one of the meanest jump float serves out there, and we are excited to see what she does this season both offensively and defensively!"
 
The 2025 season will open on the road at the Eagle Classic, hosted by Chadron State, from Thursday, September 4 to Saturday, September 6. Action starts for the Vikings on Thursday at 5 p.m. CT against Black Hills State.
 
2025 NSIC Volleyball Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. St. Cloud State – 212 (8)
2. Concordia-St. Paul – 208 (4)
3. Southwest Minnesota State – 202 (4)
4. Wayne State – 188
5. Northern State – 170
6. Sioux Falls – 133
7. Winona State – 132
8. Minnesota Duluth – 130
9. Minnesota State – 123
10. Augustana – 110
11. Jamestown – 84
12. MSU Moorhead – 77
13. Bemidji State – 53
14. University of Mary – 42
15. Minnesota Crookston – 40
16. Minot State – 16