(FREDERICTON, NB) As the UNB REDS begin the 2025-2026 Atlantic University Sport women’s volleyball season, they do so with a large graduation-bound class but a larger youth cohort.
Six members of the REDS are embarking on what will be their final seasons, including two-time AUS all-star Lydia Green.
“We feel like we’re a strong group this year,” said fifth-year outside hitter Sonya Nielsen on the eve of the start of her final season. “We have a mature returning core as well as a promising first year class. We have lots of depth with our numbers and have been able to build a strong sense of unity and togetherness throughout the pre-season.”
“I’m excited about this group,” said head coach Lauren Hale-Miller, preparing for her second season at the helm of the REDS. “They’re competitive, awesome people, and bring great energy both on and off the court. It’s a fun group to be around every day.”
In her first season, Hale-Miller led UNB to a 10-10 record.
They met Saint Mary’s in last season’s conference semi-finals and won the opening match of the best of three series before dropping the second two.
“We’re an extremely motivated group who is excited to work towards winning an AUS Championship,” said veteran blocker Isla Olesen, another fifth-year and graduating RED. “With so many players graduating, we are feeling some ‘fifth year desperation’ and are determined to end our careers at UNB on a high.”
The REDS begin their 25-26 campaign on Saturday. They visit Moncton for a 7:00pm start.
“Our senior class is ready to lead, but what really stands out is our depth,” said Coach Hale-Miller. “Any player is capable of stepping in and contributing on any night. Our game is well-rounded. We just need to continue to find ways to make it more consistent and bring that level every time we step on the court.”
“With a large roster this year we’ll be working on learning to navigate new roles so that everyone will be able to contribute to the success of our program,” said Olesen.
The REDS saw considerable success during their exhibition season, including a split-squad win over AUS rival Dalhousie.
“We’ve already seen pieces come together that we worked hard on last season and throughout pre-season,” said Hale-Miller. “It’s been great to watch the team execute, enjoy playing, and support each other.”
After their season opener on the road UNB will host Dal in their home opener on Friday, October 31st. First serve is scheduled for 6:00pm.
STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB REDS
FILE PHOTO BY: Fran Harris/for UNB REDS
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