Riverdale, NY - The University of Mount Saint Vincent opened their 2026 campaign at home on Thursday afternoon, challenging Bard College with the hopes of capturing their first win in as many games. The Dolphins looked strong but ultimately fell to the Raptors in four sets (26-24, 21-25, 9-25, 14-25). 

Head coach Jeremiah Huntt utilized a mix of veterans and newcomers, a decision that found success. Mainstays Matthew Barrancos and Yestro Luciano Jr. returned to the starting lineup, with Barrancos leading the way with 20 assists along with four kills while Luciano Jr. adding a pair of kills of his own. Second year talents Terrence Short and Tyler Hanna provided offense as well, combining for nine kills and two and a half blocks. 

Mixing in with the veterans was a crop of freshmen talent that impressed in their collegiate debuts. Raedon Nieves and Jose Dominguez were the team's top two hitters, recording 15 and 13 kills, respectively. The pair also combined for 10 service aces and nine digs as well. Quinn Hohbein and Roel Lucero both received the start at libero and aided the passing game in a big way. So, too, did first year setter Christian Ferrer, who came off the bench and had 13 assists as well. 

The Dolphins took home the first set, Short, Hanna, Dominguez and Nieves all impressed over that span, with the latter duo recording kills to close out the victory. 

UMSV returns to the floor next Tuesday for a road showdown against York.