A new year poses new challenges for the Iona College volleyball team. The reigning 2018 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Volleyball champions have had a rough start, opening the year on a seven-game losing streak.

The Gaels started the season by hitting the road, traveling to West Point, New York to play in the Army Invitational. The team lost in their opening match against Rhode Island after trailing in all three sets. This became a common theme for the remainder of the tournament as Iona fell to New Hampshire 1-3 and Army 0-3.

The Gaels then made their way to Connecticut to participate in the UConn Challenge, where they opened against the Huskies. The Gaels faced tough opponents with defeat claiming all four of the team’s matches.

While these match-ups certainly have not resulted in Iona’s favor, the team’s talent is nothing to overlook. With a new year, a new coach and a new roster, Iona volleyball has potential that gives the program much to strive for. There is promise in the veterans’ and newcomers’ performances alike, as Iona volleyball was voted third in the MAAC in the coaches’ preseason poll.

The future is bright for the Gaels despite the early-season slump with conference play less than a week away. While the team may have lost a few battles, they always seem to win the war. Iona volleyball will host its home matches at the Monroe Athletic Complex in New Roc City until renovations to the Hynes Athletic Center are complete.