Centenary University to Add Men’s Volleyball as NCAA Sport and has Named Brooke Armida Head Coach

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ, March 30, 2026—Centenary University Athletics is proud to announce the addition of men's volleyball as an official NCAA varsity sport beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year. The Cyclones will compete in the Atlantic East Conference, further expanding the university's growing athletics portfolio.

Leading the launch of the program will be current Centenary women's volleyball coach Brooke Armida, who will guide the Cyclones into their inaugural varsity season. Armida has led the women's program to tie the school record for wins and a birth to the Atlantic East playoffs.

Centenary has already established a strong foundation for the sport through its current club men's volleyball program, which has generated enthusiasm and participation across campus. The transition to NCAA varsity status marks an exciting new chapter for the university and its student-athletes.

“We are thrilled to elevate men's volleyball to the varsity level and join the Atlantic East Conference in one of the fastest growing men’s sports,” said Director of Athletics Pete Vincent. “With the success of our club program and the leadership of Coach Armida, we are confident in building a competitive and nationally recognized program.”

Armida expressed excitement about the opportunity to build something special at Centenary: “From day one, our focus is clear. We plan to build a program rooted in attitude, communication, and effort, while creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive as competitors, students, and people.”

“This is about more than adding a sport,” she added. “It's about building something meaningful from the ground up while we are establishing a culture of accountability, daily growth, and genuine connection. We are committed to developing a program that competes at a high level while maintaining a true family environment. We're not just recruiting talent. We're recruiting mindset, character, and competitors who are ready to be part of something bigger than themselves. For those who are driven, passionate, and ready to help build a legacy, there is no better time to be a Cyclone.”

The addition of men's volleyball reflects Centenary's continued commitment to enhancing the student-athlete experience and expanding opportunities for competition at the NCAA level. With strong institutional support and an energized campus community, the Cyclones are eager to begin competition and establish themselves within the conference.

More information regarding recruiting, schedule announcements, and program updates can be found at centenaryuniversity.edu or @centenaryu_mensvolleyball on Instagram.

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY

Centenary University was founded in 1867 by United Methodists and offers extraordinary learning opportunities that empower students to develop intellectually, emotionally, and interculturally—keys to career and personal success. The University aspires to advance its reputation as a world class institution offering innovative programs, including the world’s first Ph.D. in Happiness Studies and first Master of Arts in Happiness Studies, to lift the future for our students and local communities.

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

Centenary University sponsors a wide range of NCAA Division III athletic programs and is a member of the Atlantic East Conference. The Cyclones are dedicated to academic and athletic excellence while fostering leadership, teamwork, and personal growth among student-athletes.