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7 Shocking Facts About Georgian Court University Volleyball's CACC Championship Era (2024-2025)

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The Georgian Court University (GCU) Women’s Volleyball program has officially re-established itself as a powerhouse in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC), culminating in a stunning championship victory that has redefined the team's trajectory. As of late December 2025, the Lions are riding the momentum of their dominant 2024 season and navigating the challenges of a competitive 2025 campaign, proving that their success is no fluke. This deep dive uncovers the key players, coaching strategies, and historical context behind the team's recent resurgence, offering fans and competitors the most current and essential information.

The program, known as the GCU Lions, has captured the attention of the NCAA Division II landscape with its blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent. The path to their latest conference crown was built on relentless defense and strategic offensive execution, setting a high bar for the future of the Lakewood, New Jersey-based university's athletic achievements.

The 2024 CACC Championship Season: A Return to Glory

The 2024 season was nothing short of magical for Georgian Court Volleyball. The team finished the regular season with an impressive 22-10 overall record, cruising through their conference schedule to secure a top seed in the CACC Tournament.

This dominant run culminated in the 2024 CACC Women's Volleyball Championship. The Lions faced North Division No. 1 seed Post University in the final match, a high-stakes contest that showcased Georgian Court's composure under pressure.

  • Final Score: Georgian Court defeated Post University 3-0.
  • Set Scores: The Lions secured the sweep with commanding set scores of 25-20, 25-22, and 25-20.
  • Historical Significance: This victory marked the program's seventh CACC championship title and their first since the 2019 season, signaling a definitive return to elite status within the conference.

The success of the 2024 campaign was a testament to the team's depth and the strategic vision of the coaching staff. The championship trophy now sits proudly in the GCU Wellness Center, a symbol of the program's renewed commitment to excellence.

Shana Rayside's Leadership and the Program's Structure

The architect of Georgian Court's recent success is Head Coach Shana Rayside. Coach Rayside has been instrumental in cultivating a winning culture, focusing on both athletic performance and academic achievement.

Rayside's coaching philosophy emphasizes disciplined play and a fast-paced offense, which proved too much for CACC opponents in 2024. She is supported by a dedicated staff, including Associate Head Coach Jason Ulrich, who completed his 10th year with the program in 2022 and provides invaluable experience and consistency.

Coaching and Program Profile

  • Head Coach: Shana Rayside, M.Sc.
  • Associate Head Coach: Jason Ulrich
  • Conference: Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC)
  • Division: NCAA Division II
  • Home Court: GCU Wellness Center, Lakewood, NJ

Following their championship run, the Lions were highly regarded in the CACC preseason polls for the 2025 season, being picked second in the South Division, highlighting the respect the league has for the sustained quality of the program.

Key Players and Rising Stars: The Core of the Lions' Roar

A championship team is defined by its stars, and Georgian Court University has a strong roster of impact players who have driven the team's recent accomplishments. The program successfully integrates veteran leadership with fresh talent, ensuring a pipeline of competitive players.

One of the most prominent names is Blessing Uchunor. The Outside Hitter, who was a Redshirt Junior during the championship 2024 season and a Redshirt Senior in 2025, has been a consistent offensive force for the Lions. Her powerful hitting and court presence make her a focal point for opposing teams' defensive strategies.

The 2025 roster also features other crucial entities who contribute significantly to the team's performance. Players like Ta-Marrae Sears (Right Side) and Addison Churnesky (a freshman who earned an All-CACC spot) are part of the new generation stepping up to maintain the high standards set by the 2024 squad.

Notable Player Entities and Achievements

  • Blessing Uchunor (OH): A primary offensive weapon whose experience was vital in the 2024 title run.
  • Ta-Marrae Sears (RS): Provides versatility and depth on the right side of the court.
  • Amber Gallo: A key contributor whose performance is often highlighted in the 2025 box scores.
  • Brooke Bowbliss: Another essential player whose defensive and passing skills are crucial for the team's ball control.
  • Freshman Churnesky: A promising newcomer who quickly established herself, claiming a spot on the All-CACC team.
  • Academic Excellence: The program also takes pride in its academic success, with three players earning spots on the CACC All-Academic Team in December 2024, demonstrating the balance between athletics and education at GCU.

The 2025 season has presented new challenges, including a tough rematch loss to Post University in October 2025, indicating the competitive nature of the CACC. However, the team continues to battle, maintaining a focus on CACC play against perennial rivals like Wilmington University, Chestnut Hill College, and Thomas Jefferson University.

The Future Outlook: Sustaining CACC Dominance

Looking ahead, Georgian Court University Volleyball is positioned for sustained success. The 2024 CACC Championship has provided a powerful foundation, attracting top recruits and solidifying the team's reputation as a premier destination for NCAA DII volleyball talent in the Northeast region. The competitive atmosphere of the CACC South Division, which includes strong programs like Goldey-Beacom and Holy Family, ensures the Lions must remain sharp and focused every season.

Coach Rayside's program is clearly built for the long term, emphasizing player development and strategic recruiting. The mixture of experienced players like Uchunor and burgeoning talents like Churnesky ensures the team will remain a formidable contender for the CACC crown for years to come. Fans are eager to see how the Lions translate their championship pedigree into future NCAA Tournament appearances and continued dominance in conference play.

The pursuit of excellence at Georgian Court University is a year-round commitment, a dedication that makes the GCU Lions a must-watch team in the Division II volleyball world.

georgian court university volleyball
georgian court university volleyball

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