WINONA, Minn. – The Saint Mary's women's volleyball team has had a preseason for the books. Media day is over, a trip to Milwaukee to watch some of the best volleyball in the nation at the AVCA First Serve, and their final scrimmage of the season; the team is ready for the season ahead.

The Cardinals are excited to host once again the Sugar Loaf Classic, presented by Toppers, with five teams making the trip to Winona to compete. It will also mark the first official games of the season; it is set to take place Friday, Sept. 4 through Saturday, Sept. 5. 

The team will open the season on Friday, Sept. 4 at 5:00 p.m.

A full schedule and information can be found at the link here. 

"We have a great mix of experience and new talent, and there's a lot of energy and competitiveness in the gym," said head volleyball coach Amber Zitzow.

Zitzow is heading into her fifth season at the helm.

"I'm most looking forward to seeing how we grow together, compete at a high level, and create special moments as a team throughout the season."

The following weekend, the Cardinals are set to travel to De Pere, Wis., for another tournament before the Cardinals host their first Tri of the season with UW-La Crosse and Luther on Wednesday, Sept. 16.

The team will open conference play on Friday, Oct. 2, hosting Carleton at 7:00 p.m. 

They will also hold their second Tri of the season on Saturday, Oct. 10, with Macalester and Coe.

The final home game of the 2026 season will be on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 7:00 pm. against Augsburg. 

"Our expectations are high this season." 

"We want to compete with confidence every time we step on the court, continue improving together, and hold ourselves to a high standard every day." 

Just shy of the MIAC Playoffs last season, the Cardinals have every expectation to position themselves to make the Playoffs. 

The 2026 Volleyball Playoffs are set for Tuesday, Nov. 10 through Saturday, Nov. 14 at the institution that has the highest seed. 

"We have a great group that is excited to compete, and I think fans will see how much we support and fight for one another."