JMU Sports Network will be utilizing a brand new control room inside the Atlantic Union Bank Center (AUBC) for their broadcasts this year. The control room will not only improve the quality of broadcasts, but provide students with opportunities to use top of the industry equipment.

In the Preseason Coaches' Poll, the defending Sun Belt Champions, JMU volleyball was voted to finish first in the Sun Belt.  Senior outside hitter Miëtte Veldman was also named the Sun Belt Preseason Offensive Player of the Year. Now, the Dukes are gearing up for its first game of the season in the Convocation Center against High Point on Friday night at 5 p.m. 

JMU volleyball is off to a 4-2 start this season, but the Dukes' results are even better when they rack up kills, or spikes over the net that the opposition can't hit back over the net. Online Managing Editor Savannah Reger breaks down JMU's success on kills so far this season and how they can sustain with its depth at outside hitter. 

JMU is launching a sportsmanship campaign called Dukes Do Better in light of the school's move to the Sun Belt Conference, more exposure as a national brand and past fan complaints at JMU sporting events. Sports editor Grant Johnson attended JMU's mandated Sun Belt sporting behavior and ethical conduct meeting Aug. 24 to document how administration will disseminate the campaign to students and fans. 

The energy in Sinclair Gymnasium was undeniable Sunday as fans rallied to cheer on JMU volleyball against Towson on Senior Day. The Dukes and Tigers both brought their A-games, but Towson ultimately pulled ahead and won the match 3-1 (25-16, 22-25, 25-15, 25-20).

In volleyball, defensive specialists are the first to contact the ball once it’s served into play. They steady the offense and determine whether the team will have a chance to score — the offense relies on the back line to control the ball and set the hitters up for success.

Following a three-match win streak — all won without conceding a single set — JMU faced its toughest test of the season, hosting the defending CAA champion Towson on Saturday. Both teams entered the match tied for first place in the CAA. JMU won the match 3-0 (25-23, 25-19, 25-19).