The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) volleyball team in La Plata is gearing up for its 2025 season, aiming for a fifth consecutive .500 or better record and a spot in the NJCAA National Tournament. After finishing 2024 with a 12-12 overall record and an 8-4 mark in conference play, CSM volleyball is poised to build on its momentum with a mix of seasoned returners and a promising freshman class.
Leading the returners is sophomore defensive specialist Mia DeCarlo from Frostburg, Maryland, who tallied 208 digs (3.78 per set) and 26 service aces in 2024. Her defensive prowess will anchor CSM volleyball’s backline. Lelia Iafeta, a sophomore from Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, returns as a versatile outside and opposite-side hitter, contributing 97 kills and 15 blocks last season. Madison Zambito, a sophomore from Woodbridge, Virginia, adds depth with 88 digs and 19 service aces, strengthening the team’s defensive core.
The Hawks lost key contributors, including defensive specialist Katy Swanson from Huntingtown, Maryland, who recorded 689 career digs and earned All-MD JUCO honors. Outside hitter Julia Williams of Prince Frederick, Maryland, also departed after a standout 2024 season with 110 kills and All-Region 20 recognition. Other losses include Brooklynn Delane, who moved to Regent, and middle blocker Meghan Pullen, who posted 27 blocks. These departures challenge CSM volleyball to rebuild its offensive and defensive balance.
A robust freshman class joins the roster to fill the gaps. Kaylana Parde (Oxon Hill), Amelie Lancioni (Chopticon), and Payton Jones (La Plata) bolster the defensive and setter positions. Amanda Stafford (Gloucester, Virginia) and Jasmin Qalanawi (Hamburg, Germany) add firepower as outside hitters, while Donshae Walls (Newport News, Virginia) and Kennedi Jones (White Plains) bring versatility as middle blockers and hitters. Ana Salamanca (Mexico City) and Taylor Hollinger (Alexandria, Virginia) enhance the defense, and Kaylen Miles (Great Mills) joins as a setter. Deanna Kalkbrenner (Huntingtown) rounds out the group as a middle blocker, adding local talent to CSM volleyball.
The 2024 season saw CSM volleyball finish strong at home (9-3) but struggle in neutral-site matches (1-5). With an 8-4 conference record, the Hawks showed consistency but fell short of the NJCAA tournament. The 2025 schedule, yet to be released, will test the team’s ability to integrate its freshmen with veterans like DeCarlo and Iafeta. Coach Kristie McGunnigle aims to leverage the team’s depth to push past last season’s .500 mark.
Southern Maryland fans can expect competitive matches at CSM’s La Plata campus, where the Hawks’ home court advantage shines. With a balanced roster and a clear goal of reaching the NJCAA Nationals, CSM volleyball is ready to make its mark in 2025
