Flyers Compete in First Beach Scrimmage of the Fall

The Sandhills Community College Flyers Beach Volleyball team kicked off its fall slate on Thursday with a home scrimmage against Gaston College. Competing in mixed pairs, the Flyers showcased early chemistry, energy, and steady improvement throughout the day as coaches evaluated potential pairings ahead of the spring season.

The scrimmage provided valuable experience for both returners and newcomers, with several players noting how the day helped them translate practice habits into live play.

Freshman Jaselyn Fink said she felt her confidence grow with each match.

"I was very nervous going into today and playing other people, but as we played more, I started to get comfortable and just focused on playing the best I could," Fink said. "I felt really good throughout the day and started using the little things we've been working on in practice. My favorite part was winning hard-fought points and cheering on my teammates."

Sophomore Kennedy Koziarz, one of the Flyers' returning leaders, noticed the benefits of her offseason training paying off.

"I've seen the most growth in my physical abilities—I'm able to jump a lot higher and lift a lot more, which has really helped my hitting and blocking in the sand," Koziarz said. "I enjoy being outside, love long rallies—especially when I win them—and I've really enjoyed leading the freshmen this year and watching them grow."

For several first-year Flyers, the scrimmage marked their first taste of collegiate competition. Alyssa Ingle appreciated both the teamwork and the intensity of play.

"My favorite aspect of beach so far has been being part of a close-knit team," Ingle said. "I was so excited to play today. Conditioning-wise I felt great and was happy with my aggressive serving, though I know I need more work on serve receive."

Fellow freshman Kaylee Lancaster echoed the excitement of the day.

"My favorite part about beach so far is how fun and laid back it is, but also how competitive it can get," Lancaster said. "I started out nervous but ended really well. I kept improving as the day went on—talking more and playing better each match."

With a blend of returning talent and promising newcomers, the Flyers will continue training through the fall as they build toward the 2026 spring season. The team's next scrimmage is set for Friday, October 24th, when Sandhills will host Wingate University beginning at 12 p.m.

2025–26 Sandhills Flyers Beach Volleyball Fall Roster:
Kennedy Koziarz, Emery Freeman, Anyssia Mains, Jaselyn Fink, Ava Hancock, Alyssa Ingle, Kaylee Lancaster, and Riley Newton.