USC Sumter Volleyball Heads to Florida for Key Non-Conference Matches

Sumter, S.C. — August 27, 2025 — The USC Sumter Fire Ants volleyball team is hitting the road for a challenging weekend in Florida, where they will face two of the state's most competitive programs: Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) and Polk State College.

The Fire Ants will open the trip at The Reef against FSCJ, a program competing in NJCAA Region 8 and known for its strong tradition in junior college volleyball. The Manta Rays have consistently fielded competitive teams and recently opened their season at one of the nation's premier JUCO tournaments, signaling their intent to remain a force in the region.

Next, USC Sumter will take on Polk State College, one of the most accomplished programs in NJCAA volleyball. The Eagles have made seven NJCAA National Tournament appearances since 2014, including a third-place finish in 2016 and a fourth-place finish in 2019. Last season, Polk State finished nationally ranked and third in the FCSAA/NJCAA Region 8 standings, competing in one of the toughest conferences in the country.

The Fire Ants are off to a successful start to the season beating Central Carolina Community College and Lenoir Community College 3-0, 3-0. The team is averaging over 11 kills per set and has 42 service aces. Freshmen Isabella Cocke and Telecia Tame currently lead the team in kills with 65 between the two. Sophomore Julia Hurd leads the team in service aces with 8.

This Florida trip will provide USC Sumter with an opportunity to test its roster against elite competition and gain valuable experience before returning to Region 10 play.

For updates, scores, and more information about Fire Ants Volleyball, visit www.uscfireants.com.