Hill College volleyball program ends turnaround season with regional playoff appearance

Hill College’s turnaround volleyball season came to an end on November 7 as the Rebels fell 3-0 to New Mexico Military Institute in the opening round of the NJCAA Division I Region 5 Volleyball Tournament in Weatherford. 

Despite the regional loss, the 2025 season marked the first time the Rebels have advanced to postseason play since 2023 – something Head Coach Haley Buard is very proud of. 

“This program has made tremendous strides and competed at a high level all season,” Buard said. “I’m extremely proud of my players for making it to regionals and for how far they’ve come. Their growth, effort, and commitment to this program have truly set a new standard for Hill College Volleyball.” 

Hill College (16-10, 12-6) ended its 2025 regular season campaign in a three-way tie for second place in the North Texas Junior College Athletic Conference standings only behind Weatherford College (currently ranked No. 2 in the nation). Last year, the Rebels ended with a conference record of 5-9. 

"Being in the race and finishing in a tie for second truly showed how much hard work and growth this team has put in over the past year,” Buard added. “I’m extremely proud of how far we’ve climbed in such a short amount of time.” 

Although the All-Region and All-Conference selections have not yet been named, Hill College freshman setter Melanie Gasca finished third in the Region in service aces per set and fourth in the Region in assists per set. She also led the team with 438 assists during the season. 

Additionally, four student-athletes for the Rebels had 100 or more kills during the season, including sophomore Zamariya Lyons (118), freshman Addison Ridge (113), sophomore Nikola Jaroszewicz (102), and sophomore Oliwia Jaroszewicz (100). 

“For several of our players to finish the season with such high numbers is something I’m incredibly proud of,” Buard said. “Seeing Addison also entering the regional conversation for potential first-team honors speaks volumes about her impact. I’m proud of our returners, Oliwia and Nikola, who have been the heartbeat of this team all year. Zamariya’s consistency and positive energy has been huge for our program.” 

Conference opponent Weatherford College won the Region 5 Volleyball Tournament and advanced to its third consecutive NJCAA Division I National Volleyball Tournament, which runs November 19-22 in Clarksville, Tennessee. 

For more information on the Hill College volleyball program, please visit https://hillcollegeathletics.com.