Elizabeth City State University Athletics

WILSON, NC - The Elizabeth City State Vikings (1-0) got the 2026 season started on a high note when the team took a five-set win over the Barton College Bulldogs (0-1) in the Barton Invitational. After taking a pair of 23-25 losses in the first two sets of the match, the Vikings stormed back in a major way, securing wins in the final three sets, 25-21, 25-21, and 15-9.

The Vikings took the win behind some great defensive play. The Vikings finished the match with 11 total blocks to control the game. The Vikings also recorded 74 digs in the match. Junior middle blocker Christian Bouie led the way for the Vikings with eight total blocks (seven solo) and 10 kills in the match. Fellow junior Kendall Washington added 17 kills to lead the team as well. 

With the win, the Vikings open the season at 1-0. The team won't have long to celebrate as they will return to the court later this evening to take on the Newberry Wolves in a 7:00 p.m. match. 

For more information on Vikings volleyball, contact the Elizabeth City State University Office of Athletics Media Relations or visit www.ECSUVikings.com.