Opening Weekend Tournament 2026

Women's Volleyball

Hawks Open 2026 Season with Strong Test at Opening Weekend Tournament

Rockford, IL: The Harper Hawks opened the 2026 season by facing a challenging field at the Opening Weekend Tournament in Rockford, finishing the weekend with a 2-4 record. Harper did not face a Region 4 opponent during the tournament, instead taking on teams from six different programs and multiple regions across the country.

The Hawks earned victories over Muskegon and Edison State, both from Region 12. Harper also faced tough competition from Pima (Region 1), Lake-Sumter (Region 8), Southeastern (Region 11), and Minnesota West (Region 13). The tournament provided an early opportunity for the Hawks to measure themselves against programs outside their region, including two teams coming off particularly strong 2025 seasons. Minnesota West finished last season 38-5, while Lake-Sumter posted a 25-6 record.

While the 2-4 record was not the outcome Harper wanted, the weekend provided valuable experience against a diverse group of opponents and several high-level programs. The Hawks will take those lessons back to Palatine as they prepare to begin the Region 4 portion of their schedule.

The Opening Weekend Tournament served as an early measuring stick for a Harper team with 10 returning players and a new coaching staff led by head coach Jill Hoffman. With Region 4 competition now ahead, the Hawks will look to build on the experience gained in Rockford and turn those lessons into success when conference play begins.
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