ALFRED, NY -- The Alfred University women's volleyball team will take the quick trip up to Houghton University to face the Highlanders in the first round of the Empire 8 Tournament on Saturday at 1:00 PM.

The Saxons finished the year 13-16 overall, while going 7-4 in conference play. Meanwhile, Houghton wrapped up its season 12-15 overall with a conference record of 7-4. Earlier this season, the Highlanders defeated AU at the Terry S. Galanis Family Arena in a 3-0 sweep.

Alfred University has made it to the Empire 8 Tournament for the fourth consecutive season. They'll look to make another run to the championship for the first time since they defeated Keuka College in 2023. 

As per the Empire 8 policy, admission will be charged for the 2026 Empire 8 Women's Volleyball Championship Tournament. Cash will be the only accepted payment. Ticket prices are:

$10.00 - Adults
$5.00 - Seniors
$2.00 - Students with ID (from a competing institution)
Free - Children under 12

Parking for Houghton's Nielsen Center can be found in front of the facility. Click this link for more information regarding Houghton's campus map and parking.

The Empire 8 Tournament schedule can be found below:

Saturday, November 7 – First Round 
No. 8 SUNY Brockport at No. 1 St. John Fisher – 12 p.m.
No. 7 Nazareth at No. 2 SUNY Geneseo – 12 p.m.
No. 6 Russell Sage at No. 3 Hartwick – 5 p.m. 
No. 5 Alfred at No. 4 Houghton – 1 p.m.
 
Wednesday, November 11 – Semifinals (at Higher Seed)
Winner of St. John Fisher/SUNY Brockport vs. Winner of Houghton/Alfred – 6 p.m.
Winner of SUNY Geneseo/Nazareth vs. Winner of Hartwick/Russell Sage – 6 p.m.

Saturday, November 14 - Championship Final
Winner of Semifinal Game 1 vs. Winner of Semifinal Game 2 at Highest Remaining Seed – TBA