THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED. Exhibition and competition matches will continue as scheduled. Contact alumni@emu.edu or call 540-432-4589 for more information. [Updated 1/12/2022]
They say the 30th anniversary is supposed to be pearl, but this year, all the EMU men’s volleyball team wants for its anniversary is to see their alumni.
The men’s volleyball team will celebrate its 30th anniversary on Saturday, Jan. 15 with activities and celebrations throughout the day.
“Talking with former EMU athletes is one of my favorite activities, especially when we meet on campus,” said Director of Athletics Dave King. “Being here seems to create a flood of memories and stories. So I am really excited to welcome back to campus former men’s volleyball players for this historic celebration of 30 years. Unfortunately, COVID has delayed the planning process and may impact the event.”
The celebration will kick off at 9 am, with exhibition matches between the current EMU team, Southern Virginia, Randolph-Macon and EMU MVB alumni. During this time, alumni have the choice of joining in the play, either recreationally or competitively.
After that, at noon, it’s time for the main attraction and lots of bragging rights when the alumni take on this year’s squad inside Yoder Arena. During this time, all of the alumni present will also be recognized. Then, when the match is complete, there will be a team and alumni meal to give guests the opportunity to catch up while also meeting the newest Royals.
The team may be celebrating 30 years, but they have the wisdom, experience and success of a much older team. Started in 1991, the team has racked up 337 wins and made four NCAA tournament appearances. The team also boasts two Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association championships, an EIVA Player and Coach of the Year and two North East Collegiate Volleyball Association runner-up finishes.
“Besides reconnecting with teammates and coaches, the event is intended to honor those who started the program and built the foundation,” King said. “EMU was ahead of the times when they added men’s volleyball in 1991. I want to recognize and honor the vision that Sandy Brownscombe and the administration had to start a sports program that no other ODAC school sponsored at that time. That was and continues to be a gift to the university and the young men who have learned valuable lessons through playing this sport. It provided recruiting advantages and exciting competition for the community to watch.”
Team alumni have been contacted ahead of this event, but if you forgot to RSVP, please email alumni@emu.edu or call 540-432-4589.