Devynn Alston, Staff Writer
The VCU Invitational will give the Rams’ an early-season test against familiar opponents. The invitational runs from Sept. 4-5 at Siegel Center and features VCU, East Tennessee State University, the University of Virginia and the College of William & Mary.
VCU will face ETSU and UVA, opponents that the Rams have seen recently. UVA and William & Mary last met in 2024, while ETSU and William & Mary have not faced each other since 2014.
VCU
Lannah Price, a second-year outside hitter, will look to carry over her preseason momentum into the VCU Invitational. Price, who primarily contributed on the defensive side of the ball last season, showed an expanded offensive presence during VCU’s exhibition match against Christopher Newport University. Price will look to build on last season, where she recorded 76 digs and 14 kills across 54 sets.
ETSU
Makayla Bays, a third-year outside hitter, enters the invitational as one of ETSU’s primary offensive weapons. Bays was selected to the Preseason All-Conference Team, recording 443 kills, 45 aces, 281 digs and 33 total blocks last season. Her production on both sides of the net makes her a player VCU will have to account for at all times. With Bays entering her third season, ETSU will look to her experience and production to lead the Buccaneers through the early-season invitational.
UVA
Reagan Ennist, a second-year outside hitter, looks to build off her first season with the Cavaliers. The 6-foot-3 2025 ACC All-Freshman Team member recorded 383 kills and 141 digs last season. Her combination of size and production will make her a difficult matchup for VCU.
William & Mary
Katherine Arnason, a fourth-year opposite, enters the invitational after ranking second on her team in blocks last season. Arnason recorded a career-high nine blocks when William & Mary played Davidson, showcasing her defensive presence at the net. She will look to bring that same defensive intensity to the invitational.