CASE SUMMARY
The 2026 season marks the beginning of a new chapter for King's College women's volleyball.
 
A roster featuring seven freshmen and two transfers will bring new energy and talent to a program that has long been known for its defensive consistency. Combined with a returning core committed to elevating its level of play, the Monarchs enter the season with higher expectations and a belief that they can compete at a higher level within the MAC Freedom Conference.
 
"Youth will be served for the 2026 women's volleyball team," Kachinko said. "Half of the team (seven freshmen and two transfers) will be new to the program."
 
 
INITIAL ASSESSMENT
The Monarchs were selected eighth in the 2026 Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Freedom Women's Volleyball Preseason Poll, which was voted on by the conference's head coaches.
 
Defending MAC Freedom Champion Stevens topped the poll with 63 points and seven first-place votes, followed by Misericordia with 56 points and two first-place votes. DeSales was selected third with 51 points, followed by Lebanon Valley (44), Arcadia (35), Marywood (25), FDU-Florham (24), King's (17), and Delaware Valley (9).
 
The Monarchs enter 2026 eager to write their own story, fueled by a talented recruiting class, experienced returners, and a belief that they can take a significant step forward.
 
 
PROGRAM OUTLOOK
Among the newcomers expected to make an immediate impact are a quartet of hitters that Kachinko believes will strengthen the Monarchs throughout the lineup.
 
Weronika Malinoski and Bella Boylan arrive as athletic six-rotation outside hitters, while Saoirse Bilodeau adds depth in the middle. Emma Newman joins the program as a Division II transfer from the University of Bridgeport and brings versatility to the Monarch attack.
 
The Monarchs will also look to replace the production of graduated First Team All-MAC Freedom libero Morgan Williams. Taking on a larger role this season will be Riley McArdle, who is expected to anchor King's back-row defense in 2026.
 
McArdle was a member of the inaugural Iron Monarch class, a recognition awarded to student-athletes who exemplify work ethic, leadership, and mental fortitude. Those traits have positioned her to step into an expanded role as the Monarchs enter a new era with a blend of returning experience and incoming talent.
 
The addition of those players, coupled with a returning core that has continued to develop during the offseason, has generated excitement surrounding the program heading into the fall.
 
 
MONARCH NOTES
For years, King's has built its identity around defensive consistency. In 2026, the Monarchs expect to maintain that reputation while adding a more dynamic offensive element.
 
"Balance throughout all positions will be a strength," Kachinko said. "We have been noted as one of the best defensive teams in the MAC throughout the years, but this year we will add more offensive firepower along with the ability to compete at the net consistently."
 
 
Kachinko pointed to the commitment shown by the team's returning players and the impact of a strong recruiting class as key factors in the program's development entering the season.
 
 
THE ROAD AHEAD
With eight MAC Freedom home matches on the schedule, King's supporters will have plenty of opportunities to see a new-look Monarch squad take the court this season.
 
"Fans should be excited about seeing the new-look King's volleyball team that will play the game more above the net than in the past few years," Kachinko said.
 
 
MISSION STATEMENT
Kachinko believes the foundation for success begins long before the opening serve.
 
"We have higher expectations than in the past few years and hope to win at a higher level," Kachinko said.
 
"We will start in practice developing that winning culture, capturing those day-to-day small victories, building our confidence and trust in one another."
 
The Monarchs hope that approach will help lead them to increased production in 2026 while pursuing a return to the top half of the MAC Freedom standings and the program's first 20-win season since 2021.
 
"There will be lots of excitement with this team's brand of play, which will be fun to watch and develop into one of the best teams we have had since 2021," Kachinko said.