SPRINGFIELD – Missouri State beach volleyball is set to host its intrasquad scrimmage on Friday, Oct. 3, at 4 p.m. at the Betty & Bobby Allison Sand Volleyball Courts.

The scrimmage will give fans their first look at the Beach Bears under the direction of third-year head coach Ashley Emery as the squad builds momentum for the 2026 spring campaign. Admission is free, offering the campus and Springfield community an up-close chance to see the team's depth, competitive edge, and excitement for the season ahead.

Missouri State is coming off a successful 2025 campaign, finishing 18-10 overall, undefeated at home with an 11-0 record, and earning its second consecutive postseason berth. Several standout returners headline the 2026 roster, including Rylie Cepicky and Allyson Larkin, two of the Bears' top performers a year ago. The returning pairs of Amanda Cleary and MacKenzie Steele as well as Maddie Schrandt and Manuela Niemeyer also bring experience back to the sand.

Complementing the returning experience, Missouri State introduces six newcomers with five freshmen and one transfer set to strengthen the roster with added depth.
Fans attending the scrimmage are encouraged to bring donations for the Bear Pantry, with collection buckets available at the courts. Suggested items include pasta, canned goods, snack items, household supplies, and personal hygiene products.

Come out, support the Beach Bears, and help make an impact through the Bear Pantry donation drive while catching the first glimpse of the 2026 squad in action.