Submitted Photo Minot State Beaver volleyball player spikes the ball over the net. Photo courtesy of Minot State

Minot State volleyball kicks off Homecoming week with a bang as the Beavers host the 1st International Bank Homecoming Tournament at the MSU Dome this Thursday and Friday. The two-day event will showcase five teams, with play beginning at 9 a.m. on Thursday and 8 a.m. on Friday, and will mark the season debut for every visiting squad.

The Beavers will open their home tournament on Thursday at 11 a.m. against Montana State-Billings, before returning to the court in prime time against the University of Manitoba at 7 p.m. On Friday, Minot State resumes play at 10 a.m. in a highly anticipated match up with Black Hills State and closes the weekend with a 6 p.m. contest against Brandon University.

Alongside Minot State, the tournament features Montana State-Billings, Manitoba, Black Hills State, and Brandon University. With all four visiting programs beginning their seasons in Minot, fans can expect a weekend full of high-energy match ups.

The match up with Black Hills State is expected to be a highlight. The Yellow Jackets swept Minot State in their 2024 meeting, 25-16, 25-22, 25-22, relying on sharp serving and efficient hitting to control the match. The player to watch for Black Hills State is Sydnie Tuioti-Mariner who orchestrates the offense and sets the tone with her play making.

For the Beavers, returning standouts will look to make their mark. Paulina Kowalska was a force against BHSU last fall, recording 12 kills and three blocks.

Minot State opened its 2025 campaign at the Seawolf Invitational in Anchorage, Alaska, facing four opponents across two days and registering four tough losses.

Individual Leaders for Minot State:

Emily Willis – 6 kills

Katelyn Onespot-Danforth – 6 kills

Caton Pearcy – 11 digs

Jaina Macaulay – 2 aces and team-high 12 assists

The 1st International Bank Homecoming Tournament provides fans with the first opportunity to see Minot State in action this fall and promises a full slate of competitive volleyball to begin Homecoming week.