Howard Payne made history this weekend, hosting the very first beach volleyball matches ever on campus as the Lady Jackets welcomed Schreiner University for a doubleheader exhibition. The day marked a monumental milestone for the program and the fans who came out to witness it firsthand.

Under the leadership of first-year head coach Micah Taylor, the Lady Jackets continued building momentum after opening their program last week with their inaugural matches in Belton, TX at The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, where Coach Taylor earned her first-ever set victory. Saturday's home debut elevated the excitement even further, as Howard Payne showcased the talent and depth of the squad in front of a lively crowd of supporters, including teammates, families, and local fans eager to witness history in the making.

The Lady Jackets dominated on the sand, winning the first match 4-1 before edging Schreiner 3-2 in the second match. All 18 athletes saw action throughout the day, contributing to a remarkable weekend total: out of 18 matches played, only three were lost. The day was a full celebration of effort, teamwork, and a program taking its first big steps into competition.

Special recognition was given to the four seniors—Ashley Quizon, Halie Coon, Addison Roden, and Chloe Waller—whose leadership helped set the tone for this inaugural season. Their presence on the court reflected not just skill but the foundation they helped lay for the Lady Jackets' beach volleyball program.

"This weekend was something truly special for our program. To see our Lady Jackets take the court at home for the first time, to feel the energy from the fans, and to watch all 18 girls have the opportunity to compete at home—it's a moment we'll never forget. These first matches set the tone for what our program can become, and I couldn't be more proud of how hard these young women competed and supported each other. This is just the beginning and we can't wait to show what Howard Payne's beach volleyball is all about." Exclaimed Coach Taylor. 

It was a historic day for Howard Payne athletics, with memorable victories, enthusiastic fans, and milestones that will be remembered for years to come. The Lady Jackets proved that this new program is already off to a flying start, and the future looks bright as they continue to make history match by match.