On October 11, 2025, Louisiana Tech Athletics made history by hosting its first-ever double header for women’s and men’s volleyball, marking the official start of the men’s volleyball season. The event, held at the university’s home court, brought together fans, students, and alumni in a celebration of athletic achievement and progress. The women’s team kicked off the evening with a highly competitive match, setting the stage for the men’s squad to make their much-anticipated debut. The atmosphere was electric as supporters filled the stands, eager to witness both teams compete and to welcome men’s volleyball at the Thomas Assebly Center.
This landmark occasion not only showcased the growing popularity and institutional support for volleyball at Louisiana Tech but also highlighted the university’s commitment to expanding athletic opportunities for its student-athletes. The double header format allowed fans to enjoy back-to-back action and promoted unity between the women’s and men’s programs. By launching the men’s season alongside a women’s match, Louisiana Tech Athletics demonstrated its dedication to inclusivity and growth, setting a new standard for collegiate sports events in the region. The success of the inaugural double header is expected to pave the way for more collaborative events and heightened interest in volleyball for years to come.
Following the women's game against Western Kentucky University, the men's A-Team took the court as the prepared for the much anticipated rivalry game against the University of Louisiana-Lafayette. The club program faces off against ULL twice each year, once at home and once away. This season, with the addition of 16 new players on the roster of the program, Louisiana Tech entered only its third week of practice before the game against ULL. Dropping the first two sets 18-25 and 16-25, the young team looked frazzled as they found themselves in unfamiliar territory. Nerves and anxiety took over as the Bulldogs just couldn't seem to get much rolling on offense paired with a not-so-scrappy defense that they were used to.
Returning verterans for this game included Joe Shockely (setter), Collin Tran (Outside Hitter), David Moore (Middle Blocker), Marcus Smith and Landon Moore (Opposite Hitters), and Gavyn Morales (Libero). The remainder of the A-Team roster included 5 freshmen. As they looked to the score board after the second set, a reality set in that either the Bulldogs needed to win the third set just to give them a chance, or they would be sending ULL home with a season-opening win for the first time. After a slow start, the Dogs found a spark that set forth a series of agressive attacks on offense during the third set. Ending with a score of 25-18, the Louisiana Tech rallied with the momentum to push a deciding fifth set after winning the fourth in a tight race only 28-26. The Bulldogs fought hard to win the fifth set 15-12. For anyone in attendance, anyone could agree that it was well worth the entertainment of being able to witness the club's first reverse sweep!
The coaching staff and the players are very grateful for the new relationship with Coach Scott Mattera of Louisiana Tech Women's Volleyball. With this remarkable event, Louisiana Tech has set a vibrant precedent that will inspire athletes and fans alike for generations.
