Rice Volleyball Unveils 2026 Spring Slate in Houston
Date Published
Rice Volleyball fans in Houston have plenty to look forward to this spring. The Owls have rolled out their 2026 spring schedule, setting the stage for a focused stretch of competition designed to sharpen the squad ahead of the fall season. While springball doesn’t count toward standings, it plays a major role in player development and team identity.
Rice will take on a mix of regional programs and high-level opponents throughout March and April. These matchups allow the Owls to test lineups, experiment with rotations, and give younger players valuable court time. With head coach Genny Volpe continuing to push the program’s competitive standard, this spring slate is a chance to build early cohesion.
What to Expect This Spring
The spring season offers a more flexible environment, but the competition is still intense. Rice will face programs known for consistent NCAA Tournament appearances and strong defensive systems. These scrimmages allow coaches to evaluate new talent and assess offseason progress.
Although the 2026 slate doesn’t involve postseason implications, Owls fans can expect high energy and plenty of standout performances. Spring volleyball often highlights developing hitters, dynamic middles, and backcourt depth — all areas Rice aims to strengthen.
Why It Matters
For Houston-area supporters, the spring season provides a close-up look at the program’s future. It’s a chance to watch new contributors emerge, witness rising stars in action, and get a preview of how the Owls might compete in conference play later in the year.
This schedule also signals Rice’s commitment to maintaining a rigorous year-round standard. By stacking the spring calendar with quality opponents, they continue building a culture rooted in resilience and readiness.
This article is a summary of reporting by Rice University Athletics. Read the full story here.