DePaul Men's Club Volleyball Focuses on Growth

The student-led team competes in the University of Illinois-Chicago Valentine's Invite, showcasing a blend of competitive spirit and team dynamics.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The DePaul University men's club volleyball team recently competed in the University of Illinois-Chicago Valentine's Invite, highlighting their unique approach to the sport. The team is composed of a mix of transfer students and freshmen, bringing a blend of experience and new perspectives that is proving crucial to their growth. Unlike many collegiate programs, DePaul's club volleyball operates without a dedicated coach, fostering a collaborative environment where players share responsibilities and strategic analysis.

Why it matters

DePaul's club volleyball program exemplifies the increasing popularity and competitiveness of club sports at the collegiate level. These organizations offer students a pathway to continue participating in sports they love while balancing academic commitments, providing a valuable outlet for talented athletes who may have chosen a school primarily for its academic reputation or location.

The details

The tournament at UIC featured ten collegiate club teams and provided valuable playing time for the Blue Demons as they prepare for larger competitions. A significant aspect of DePaul's current roster is the influx of transfer students and freshmen, comprising nine of the thirteen players. This blend of experience and new perspectives is proving to be a key ingredient in the team's growth. The student-led structure of the team encourages open communication and allows for diverse input from all team members, with players sharing responsibilities such as refereeing matches and managing in-game decisions.

  • The tournament was held on February 15, 2026.
  • The National Collegiate Volleyball Federation Championship in Kansas City is scheduled for April 2026.

The players

Rileigh Jose

The club president who noted that transfer students bring 'volleyball wisdom' and a strong work ethic, helping to elevate the overall level of play.

Joaquin Montieo

An outside hitter and transfer from Olivet Nazarene University who highlighted the opportunity to gauge DePaul's program against schools he previously considered.

Arriz Hashwani

A first-year transfer student who observed a noticeable improvement in the team's performance and seriousness, contributing to a more enjoyable and competitive atmosphere.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Blue Demons are setting their sights on the National Collegiate Volleyball Federation Championship in Kansas City this April, an event attracting over 5,000 participants nationwide.

The takeaway

DePaul's club volleyball program exemplifies the increasing popularity and competitiveness of club sports at the collegiate level, offering students a pathway to continue participating in sports they love while balancing academic commitments.