University of South Carolina Upstate Athletics
Gardner-Webb
Spartans Open Four-Match Road Swing at Gardner-Webb, Winthrop
10/15/2026 10:45:00 AM | Women's Volleyball
SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The USC Upstate volleyball team begins a four-match road swing this weekend, opening with a pair of Big South Conference matchups against Gardner-Webb on Friday, Oct. 16, and Winthrop on Saturday, Oct. 17.
The Spartans visit Gardner-Webb at 6 p.m. Friday in Boiling Springs, N.C., before traveling to Rock Hill, S.C., for a 4 p.m. matchup against Winthrop on Saturday. Both matches are important opportunities for Upstate to build momentum as conference play continues.
Upstate enters the weekend at 8-8 overall and 1-4 in Big South play after splitting its most recent home weekend, sweeping Charleston Southern before falling to Presbyterian in four sets.
Scouting the Opponents
Gardner-Webb enters Friday's contest at 11-8 overall and 2-3 in conference play. The Runnin' Bulldogs are coming off a pair of road losses to High Point and Radford, including a five-set battle against the Highlanders. Gardner-Webb has recorded 127 total blocks this season, providing a defensive challenge at the net for the Spartans.
Winthrop welcomes Upstate on Saturday after opening its conference schedule with wins over Gardner-Webb, Charleston Southern, Presbyterian and Radford before dropping a four-set decision at High Point. The Eagles enter the weekend looking to defend their home court and remain competitive in the Big South standings.
Spartan Leaders
Outside hitter Summer Kohler continues to lead the Upstate offense, totaling 231 kills and averaging 3.73 kills per set. Tien Murray has added 74 kills and 17 service aces, while Savannah Page has contributed 79 kills. Defensively, Upstate has recorded 1,035 digs and 126.5 total blocks, with the Spartans looking to turn their defensive effort into consistent offensive opportunities.
