State College Boys Volleyball Dominates Carlisle

Young Lions squad led by senior Derrick Campbell and strong hitters overcome early struggles

Mar. 28, 2026 at 2:33am

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The State College boys volleyball team, led by senior Derrick Campbell and a talented group of underclassmen hitters, defeated Carlisle 3-1 on Friday night. After a dominant first set, the Lions had some struggles in the second set before regaining control and cruising to victory in the final two sets.

Why it matters

This win helps State College build momentum as they look to keep pace with powerhouses Central Dauphin and Cumberland Valley in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth Division. For Carlisle, the loss kicks off a tough three-game stretch against the top teams in the conference.

The details

State College raced out to a 10-1 lead in the first set behind an 8-0 service run from outside hitter Max Henning. The Lions' hitters, including Micah James, Daeshon Hardison, Macon Workman and Kyle Coleman, were unstoppable with Derrick Campbell setting them up. State College won the first set 25-9. Carlisle bounced back in the second set, limiting errors and playing strong defense to steal the set 25-22. But the Lions regained their form in the third and fourth sets, winning 25-8 and 25-13 respectively to clinch the match.

  • The match took place on Friday, March 27, 2026.

The players

Derrick Campbell

The only senior starter for State College, Derrick Campbell's passing skills were crucial in setting up the Lions' powerful hitters.

Micah James

One of two basketball players on the State College roster, Micah James turned in a strong performance as a hitter for the Lions.

Max Henning

The State College outside hitter served an 8-0 run to help the Lions race out to a big lead in the first set.

Kevin Duffy

The head coach of the Carlisle Herd, who praised his team's improved play in the second set after a slow start.

Larry Campbell

The head coach of the State College Lions, who acknowledged his team's passing struggles in the second set before they regained control.

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What they’re saying

“(The second set) was closer to how we like to play volleyball.”

— Kevin Duffy, Carlisle Head Coach

“You saw the second set. We didn't pass as well, so our middles weren't involved as much.”

— Larry Campbell, State College Head Coach

What’s next

State College will look to continue building momentum as they face off against fellow Mid-Penn Commonwealth Division contenders Central Dauphin and Cumberland Valley in the coming weeks. Carlisle has a tough stretch ahead, with matches against those same two powerhouse teams.

The takeaway

Despite their youth and inexperience, the State College boys volleyball team has the talent to compete with the best in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth Division. Their ability to rebound from a second-set stumble and dominate the final two sets shows the potential of this Lions squad.