Purdue Fort Wayne Men’s Volleyball Adds Three Transfers for 2025 Season

Purdue Fort Wayne head coach Donny Gleason has officially added three transfers to the Mastodons’ men’s volleyball roster for the upcoming 2025 season. The incoming group includes outside hitter Ryan Merk from Penn State, middle blocker Liam Phinizy from Loyola Chicago, and setter Tyler Alter from Missouri S&T, according to an official announcement from the Purdue Fort Wayne athletic department.

Who are the new Mastodons joining the roster?

The program is looking to bolster its depth across multiple positions. Ryan Merk joins the Mastodons after spending two seasons at Penn State. As a libero and outside hitter, Merk brings high-level experience from the Big Ten, having appeared in 54 matches for the Nittany Lions.

Liam Phinizy moves to Fort Wayne following a stint at Loyola Chicago. Standing at 6-foot-7, the middle blocker provides immediate size at the net. Tyler Alter rounds out the trio, transferring from Missouri S&T, where he served as a primary setter. These additions follow a 2024 campaign where the Mastodons finished with a 13-14 overall record.

Why does this roster shift matter for the MIVA?

The Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (MIVA) remains one of the most competitive conferences in NCAA Division I-II men’s volleyball. By targeting experienced transfers, Gleason is prioritizing collegiate-level production over incoming freshmen to address immediate gaps in the lineup.

This strategy reflects a broader trend in NCAA volleyball, where veteran rosters often dictate success in the postseason. According to data tracked by the NCAA, teams that successfully integrate transfers often see a quicker turnaround in conference standings compared to those relying solely on high school recruiting classes. The Mastodons are attempting to bridge the gap between their mid-table finish in 2024 and the upper echelon of the MIVA.

How does the new talent compare to the outgoing squad?

The addition of these three players helps replace the production of graduated seniors and provides a different look for the 2025 offensive scheme.

What to expect in the 2025 season

The Mastodons are scheduled to integrate these players during the fall training period before the official spring competition season begins. Coach Gleason has emphasized the need for a balanced attack, and the versatility of these transfers—particularly Merk’s ability to play multiple back-row and front-row spots—will be central to that goal. Fans can expect to see these newcomers debut during the team’s exhibition schedule, which typically precedes the regular season opening in January.