LEWISTON, Maine -- The 2025 Bates College women's volleyball season begins with more than just a fresh slate—it marks the beginning of a new era under first-year head coach Carissa Bradford, whose energy, experience, and vision have already begun to reshape the program's trajectory.
After a spirited kickoff at last Friday's Garnet Growl scrimmage, the Bobcats are ready to debut under the lights of Alumni Gym on Wednesday night (6:00 p.m.) against the University of Southern Maine. The early buzz around the team is undeniable—and much of that stems from Bradford herself.
Bradford brings a decorated playing background, having competed at the Division I level at Pacific, Tennessee, and South Alabama, with a coaching resume that includes time at DIII Regis College, where she worked with both the men's and women's programs.
"I come from a very volleyball-focused family," Bradford shared. "My dad played at Pepperdine. I got serious about it in high school and found my home eventually at South Alabama. We were able to do some really good things down there—win conference championships, break records—and now I want to do that here at Bates. I want to be part of building a legacy."
That drive is matched by a commitment to individualized coaching and a cerebral approach to the game. Whether it's implementing cutting-edge film analysis tools like BallTime or tailoring instruction for different learning styles, Bradford is setting a new tone.
"Not everyone learns the same or responds the same to coaching," she said. "My job is to figure out how to make each player successful."
Bates has struggled in recent years to find footing in the always-tough NESCAC, but Bradford sees opportunity.
"We have all the pieces to be successful," she emphasized. "From day one in the gym, I could tell this team was ready to work. And we've had phenomenal support from the athletic department and fellow coaches."
Returning standouts like Ami Evans (Sr.) and Sofia Castiglioni (Jr.) anchor the team, while Kate Arés (Sr.) provides steady leadership off the court. The team also gains a boost from two-sport athlete Isabel Bettencourt (Jr.), who brings energy and versatility from the softball field to the hardwood.
Senior libero Ellie Asada brings energy and poise to the Bobcats' backcourt, helping stabilize the defense and spark transition play.
Among the first-years, outside hitters Jaime Bartley-Cohen and Jordan Blackburn have already impressed, bringing "a lot of firepower," as Bradford put it. Libero Katie Patrinos has shown promise in serve receiving and defensive rotations.
One particularly intriguing player is Nora Gilmer (So.), who is expected to set, but also brings attacking ability as a hitter. "Being a setter/right side is kind of the best position to be in—you double your chances to make an impact," Bradford explained.
On the court, expect the Bobcats to lean into tempo and offensive creativity. Bradford describes the women's game as "more like chess," and she's bringing in elements from the men's game—where speed and power dominate—to elevate Bates' style.
"Our name of the game is definitely speed in the front row," Bradford said. "We're really dynamic in the middle and can run a few different offenses that frustrate opponents. We want to showcase what we've built and not hold back. I tell the team (to) show off."
Bradford and new assistant coach Sachio Kekati, who brings experience from the men's game, have eyes on climbing the NESCAC standings and earning a playoff spot, ideally with home-court advantage.
"There's a lot of promise," Bradford said. "We're not satisfied with just showing up. We want to make an impact."
With four home matches in the first week, including a tri-match Saturday against Keene State and the University of New England, fans won't have to wait long to see what this new-look Bobcat squad is all about.
Having a renewed sense of purpose, competitive edge, and strong team chemistry, Bates volleyball looks ready to take a meaningful step forward this season.
