CONCORD, N.H. - NHTI Volleyball opens its 2026 campaign Thursday evening when the Lynx travel to Haverhill, Mass. to take on Northern Essex Community College. First serve is scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Sport and Fitness Center Gymnasium.

Thursday's matchup will mark the 24th meeting between the two programs since 2012. NHTI owns a 16-7 advantage in the all-time series, including a 6-3 record in road matchups against the Knights.

The Lynx enter the season looking to build off their most recent meeting with Northern Essex. NHTI earned a 3-0 sweep in Concord on Sept. 4, 2025, winning by set scores of 25-21, 26-24, and 25-17. The victory snapped a four-match losing streak against Northern Essex that dated back to September 2023.

Two members of this year's NHTI roster contributed to last season's victory. Sophomore Brooke Kelly recorded six kills, three service aces, and eight digs in the sweep, while sophomore Brooke Hurlbert added three service aces, seven digs, and one kill on three attacks.

The two sides have split their last 10 meetings, 5-5. NHTI has historically enjoyed success in the series, which began in 2012, including a nine-match winning streak against the Knights from 2012 through 2017.

Thursday's contest begins the 2026 regular season for the Lynx, with first serve set for 6 p.m. in Haverhill.