Local Volleyball Teams Gear Up for 2025 Season After Competitive Summer Scrimmage
ALLEN PARK, MI – August 24, 2025 – Carlson, Inter-City Baptist, and Allen Park High School volleyball teams kicked off their 2025 seasons with an outdoor scrimmage at Allen Park High School on Saturday, August 23rd, offering a first look at what fans can expect this fall. The event showcased promising talent and set the stage for what coaches anticipate will be a highly competitive year, particularly within the Downriver League.
Carlson finished the scrimmage with a 3-1 overall record, splitting matches against Allen Park before securing a sweep against Inter-City Baptist. Allen Park and Inter-City Baptist also faced off, ending in a split.For Carlson, this season marks a continuation under head Coach Erin sliwinski, who is entering her second year leading the Marauders. Sliwinski acknowledged a significant learning curve during her first season. “Last year was definitely a learning curve for me and the girls,” she said. “The challenge was getting them to know my expectations and how I handle situations. This year, we have a lot of kids coming back.We have five seniors and a highly-athletic team.” Sliwinski expressed confidence in the team’s potential to compete strongly this year.
Across the net, Inter-City Baptist Head Coach Bill Muscat is focused on developing offensive firepower.While praising his team’s defence, leadership, and dedication to practice, he pinpointed a key area for advancement. “I have to find girls that can put the ball away,” Muscat stated. He also openly shared his ambitious goals for the Chargers. “I love these girls. I do have high expectations. I coach to win, and we want to compete for a D4 state title. We still have a lot of work to do.”
Allen Park’s Head coach, Melissa Martin, is looking to her experienced Class of 2026 players to elevate their game. Martin noted the team will be facing a transition with the graduation of seven seniors, including three captains who have been integral to the program. “I think it’s going to be pretty competitive (in the Downriver League),” she predicted.
The scrimmage provided a valuable opportunity for these Downriver League teams to assess their progress and prepare for the regular season. Saturday’s event was the first of potentially multiple head-to-head matchups between Sliwinski and Martin,hinting at developing rivalries and exciting contests to come.
Background: The Downriver League is a competitive athletic conference comprised of high schools located in the Downriver area of Metro Detroit. Volleyball is a popular sport in the region, with several schools consistently vying for league and state championships. Inter-City Baptist competes in Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 4, while Carlson and Allen Park compete in higher divisions, adding to the diverse competitive landscape.
