(West Plains) A new era of Grizzly Volleyball is underway at Missouri State University-West Plains as Head Coach Dustin Sahlmann and a largely rebuilt roster begin the 2026 season.
Sahlmann joined Ozark Radio News for the latest Grizzly Update to discuss the opening weeks of the season, the development of his new team and what he hopes to see as the Grizzlies work their way through a challenging early schedule.
The 2026 Grizzlies feature plenty of new faces. Only three players — Ericka Gaspard, Nycole Delfino and Amor Stapleton — returned from last year’s squad, leaving Sahlmann and Assistant Coach Briana Domino with the task of bringing together a group that includes freshmen and transfers from a variety of backgrounds.
That process is already being tested against strong competition.
MSU-West Plains opened its season at the Crystal “Inn”vitational in Salt Lake City, Utah, where the Grizzlies faced nationally ranked Salt Lake Community College. The No. 7 Bruins defeated MSU-West Plains in straight sets, 25-18, 25-12 and 25-9.
While the early schedule presents a significant challenge, it also gives the coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate the new roster against some of the nation’s stronger junior college programs and identify areas where the team can improve as the season progresses.
Sahlmann previously said the goal this season is to combine the tradition that has made Grizzly Volleyball one of MSU-West Plains’ signature athletic programs with a new style and direction under the current coaching staff.
With so many new players, developing consistency, communication and chemistry will be an important part of the first several weeks of the season.
The Grizzlies will spend much of the opening portion of their schedule on the road before local fans get their first opportunity to see the new team in regular-season action.
MSU-West Plains is scheduled to play its home opener Tuesday, September 22, at 5:30 p.m. at the West Plains Civic Center.
The Grizzlies will also host the Grizzly Invitational October 2 and 3 in West Plains.
Watch the complete Grizzly Update with Head Coach Dustin Sahlmann as he discusses the team, the start of the season and what lies ahead for Grizzly Volleyball.
