Neumann University’s men’s volleyball team is set to make a significant leap forward as it joins the United East Conference for the 2025 season. After spending recent years as an independent team, the Knights are eager to compete in a conference environment once again, this time alongside strong programs in the region.
The move comes after the United East Conference welcomed Neumann as an associate member, marking a new chapter for the program, which has seen steady growth since its inception in 2018.
For players like graduate student and libero/outside hitter Brandon Baskerville, the shift holds deep significance.
“Joining the United East feels so important to my teammates and me,” Baskerville said.
“For me, since it’s my last year playing collegiate volleyball, I want us to dominate this year. Upping the level of competition will help this volleyball program grow.”
Baskerville’s sentiments echo throughout the team. As captain, he has witnessed firsthand the dedication his teammates bring to each practice, and he believes the increased competition and the chance to fight for conference accolades will only elevate their game.
“We’re not afraid of increased competition; we thrive on it. Playing as an independent didn’t allow us to have playoff games or a sense of accomplishment,” he said.
“This year, we have something to prove.”
Sophomore opposite hitter Trey Edmonds shares Baskerville’s enthusiasm, viewing the conference as a major step forward for both the program and Neumann University.
“Joining the United East Conference is an amazing opportunity. Being independent had its benefits, but now we have something to strive for,” Edmonds said. “We all want to fight for that spot in the conference finals.”
Last season, Neumann’s record would have placed them second in the United East Conference standings, and the team is determined to make that result official in 2025.
Edmonds sees the move as not only a competitive advantage but also a platform for greater visibility and recruiting potential.
“Being in a conference will be huge when it comes to recruiting future classes and getting Neumann more on the map,” Edmonds said.
“As a fairly new program, it can be difficult to make potential talent aware of our existence. Now we have the ability to win awards, participate in championships, and create rivalries.”
The team’s transition into the United East has sparked a renewed sense of purpose and excitement among the players, who are ready to prove themselves against the region’s best.
As Edmonds noted, “What we lack in numbers, we make up for in passion for the sport. That hunger is what’s going to make us a championship team.”
With the new season fast approaching, the Knights are united in their goal of making their mark in the United East Conference and continuing to build on the foundation laid over the past several years.
