CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Monroe University – Bronx men's volleyball team was named the 2025-26 NJCAA Academic Team of the Year for its sport on Wednesday afternoon. The full release by the NJCAA can be seen here.

As a team, Monroe earned a GPA of 3.25. 

"Being recognized as the NJCAA Men's Volleyball Academic Team of the Year reflects the dedication and effort put forth by our student-athletes, as well as the invaluable support from the entire athletics staff, including our academic advisors," Express Head Coach Marien Garcia said. "Given the rigorous schedule of our program; effective time management, participation in study hall sessions, and prioritization are crucial components for success in our men's volleyball program."

Six Express men's volleyball players earned a GPA of at least 3.60, this year, and two of them produced a GPA of 3.80 and beyond. That includes two-year setter/outside hitter David Garcia who achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA during the 2025-26 academic year.
 
Monroe won 18 matches during the season, was consistently ranked in the national poll, and earned an at-large bid into the inaugural NJCAA Men's Volleyball Championship Tournament. The Express closed out the NJCAA Postseason by defeating regional-rival Borough of Manhattan Community College, in five thrilling sets, to earn a seventh-place finish in the final NJCAA Tournament rankings. 

Despite only three years of existence, the Express men's volleyball team has become a national powerhouse both on the court and in the classroom.

ABOUT THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM AT MONROE UNIVERSITY
The athletic program at Monroe University encompasses a total of 31 teams competing across nine sports. There are 21 varsity and junior varsity programs, as well as club men's and women's rugby, the Monroe University marching band, and the recently added esports and men's volleyball programs, competing on the New Rochelle campus as the Mustangs (NJCAA Division I). The Monroe Express, based out of the Bronx campus, has seven teams competing at the NJCAA Division III level.
 
For more information about the Monroe Express, please visit us at www.MonroeExpress.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Monroe Express), Twitter/X (@MonroeExpress), Instagram (@MonroeExpress), and Threads (@MonroeExpress).