Greeneville, Tennessee, September 8, 2025
News Summary
The Lee University Lady Flames volleyball team is set to begin its season at the Tusculum Invitational in Greeneville, Tennessee. Under head coach Christa Fabre, the team will compete against King University and Edinboro University, aiming to improve on their previous season’s record of 19-16. With notable players like Payton Danley and Sara Palumbo, expectations are high as they aim for a top finish in the Gulf South Conference.
Greeneville, Tennessee — The Lee University Lady Flames volleyball team is set to commence their 2025 season this Friday at the Tusculum Invitational. Under the direction of head coach Christa Fabre, Lee will begin the tournament with a match against King University at 1 p.m., followed by an evening contest against Edinboro University of Pennsylvania at 5 p.m.
The following day, Lee will face the host team, Tusculum University, at 10 a.m. This weekend’s matches will serve as a crucial platform for the Lady Flames, who are looking to improve upon their performance from the previous season, where they achieved a 19-16 overall record and finished 11-9 within the Gulf South Conference (GSC).
According to the 2025 GSC Preseason Coaches Poll, Lee University is predicted to finish third in the conference, trailing behind the University of West Florida and the University of Alabama in Huntsville. This prediction speaks to the expectation surrounding the team as they aim for greater achievements this season.
Highlighted players on the team include sophomores Payton Danley and Sara Palumbo, both of whom have been recognized as members of the Preseason All-GSC Team. Added to this, players like Sophia Lippert are returning to full health, adding depth to the team’s roster. Coach Fabre emphasized that the team’s improved depth is a double-edged sword that, while challenging, enhances practice quality and player rest periods.
In terms of the competition, King University comes into the tournament with an overall record of 11-12 and a conference record of 9-9 from the previous season. Edinboro finished with a 14-13 overall record and a 5-9 conference performance. Tusculum University concluded their last season with an 11-9 record against South Atlantic Conference opponents and a 13-14 overall record.
It should be noted that Lee will face King University and Edinboro after those teams have had the advantage of playing earlier matches on Friday. King will play Auburn University Montgomery at 11 a.m., while Edinboro faces Converse University at 9 a.m. before their matchups with Lee.
Coach Fabre reflects on the importance of the tournament format in building team rhythm, trust, and confidence. She considers the experiences gained from previous competitions, including a trip to Nicaragua, vital in preparing for the challenges presented by this year’s tournament.
As the Lady Flames gear up for the upcoming season, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the team’s potential are palpable. With a combination of returning talent and promising newcomers, Lee University is ready to make their mark on the 2025 volleyball season.
FAQ
What is the schedule for Lee University’s matches at the Tusculum Invitational?
Lee University will play King University at 1 p.m. and Edinboro University at 5 p.m. on Friday. On Saturday, they will face the host team, Tusculum University, at 10 a.m.
Where is the Tusculum Invitational held?
The Tusculum Invitational is held in Greeneville, Tennessee.
How did Lee University’s volleyball team perform last season?
Last season, the Lady Flames recorded a 19-16 overall record and an 11-9 record in the Gulf South Conference.
Who are notable players on the Lee University volleyball team?
Sophomores Payton Danley and Sara Palumbo have been named to the Preseason All-GSC Team, along with other returning players like Sophia Lippert.
What is the predicted outcome for Lee University in the 2025 GSC Preseason Coaches Poll?
Lee University is predicted to finish third in the Gulf South Conference, following the University of West Florida and the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
Key Features of Lee University Volleyball Team’s 2025 Season
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| First Match | Against King University on Friday at 1 p.m. |
| Second Match | Against Edinboro University on Friday at 5 p.m. |
| Third Match | Against Tusculum University on Saturday at 10 a.m. |
| 2024 Season Record | 19-16 overall, 11-9 in GSC |
| Preseason Poll Prediction | 3rd place in GSC |
| Notable Players | Payton Danley, Sara Palumbo, Sophia Lippert |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
King University School Basketball Teams Gear Up for Playoffs
Additional Resources
- Lee University Volleyball Coach Profile
- Herald Courier: College Volleyball News
- Cleveland Banner: Lady Flames Volleyball Opener
- Austin Peay Volleyball Coach Profile
- Dispatch: Ohio State Men’s Volleyball Progress
- Wikipedia: Volleyball
- Google Search: Lee University Volleyball
- Google Scholar: Volleyball Coaching Strategies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Volleyball
- Google News: Volleyball News
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