ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. – The Bard College men's volleyball team picked up two awards on Wednesday as the league office announced the 2025-26 All-NEVC teams.
Ansel Waisler was named to the All-NEVC Second Team, and Damiel Batista was named to the All-Sportsmanship Team. It's the first time since Elijah Strauss (2010 and 11) that a Raptor got back-to-back All-Conference honors. Strauss was an All-Skyline honoree. Waisler was named the Rookie of the Year and All-NEVC First Team last year.
"This is a proud and historic day for our program as Ansel earns back-to-back All-Conference honors," said head coach, Tyler Zowaski. "He works relentlessly, but always thoughtfully in our gym and takes real pride in how we compete every time we step on the court. He's always finding ways to finish plays or have an edge. His versatility and athleticism make him a unique weapon in our conference that other teams clearly recognize. We're proud of what he's accomplished today and excited for what's still ahead for him."
Waisler ranked 2nd in total kills (350), 5th in the NEVC in kills per set (3.43) and 7th in the conference in digs per set (2.03). He notched seven double-doubles, including a 23-kill, 12-dig performance against Elms. He recorded double-digit kills in 17 matches this season, and he reached 10+ digs on eight occasions.
His season-high in kills was 29 against Potsdam, which ranks second in program history for most kills in a match. He has hit above .300 in nine matches, including a sensational .692 against Hartwick. He has become a threat as a blocker as well, hitting a career-high five blocks against Ramapo. He chips in as a playmaker, tallying an assist in 22 matches. Within conference play, he had double-digit kills in four matches and five games in double-digit digs.
Damiel Batista was named to the All-Sportsmanship Team, and is the first time that it has been back-to-back first years to be recognized with this award. Batista came off the bench as the Raptors OH and/or OPP. Batista is the team's loudest supporter on and off the court. He had a career-high five kills against Hartwick and had three digs against VTSU-Johnson. He accumulated 35 kills, 15 digs, and eight blocks.
"What stands out most about Damiel is his constant determination to elevate his game and ability to bring out the best in his teammates," said Zowaski. "He's put in work behind the scenes, stayed focused through the ups and downs, and truly earned this recognition."
