By Calvin Jensen, USU Eastern Sports Information Contributor
For the second time this year, the USU Eastern women’s volleyball team has found themselves in the national spotlight as recipients of the coveted NJCAA D1 National Player of the Week.
On Sept. 18, outside hitter Kiara Richardson became the first volleyball player in the school’s history to receive this prestigious award and accepted the NJCAA D1 Offensive Player of the Week. Richardson had an unbelievable 54 kills at 3.85 kills per set and a .330 hitting percentage. She has led the offensive attack for the Lady Eagles this year and has been a significant factor in the record-breaking season the team has had.
On Oct. 16, national recognition was again given to a member of the Lady Eagles team as right side hitter Sunny Perry received the sought after NJCAA D1 Defensive Player of the Week. This past week, against both the College of Southern Nevada and Snow College, Perry racked up an impressive 32 digs at 5.33 digs per set and 1.33 blocks per set. Not only did she lead the team on defensive, she added 18 kills in an offensive attack.
“Having two of our team members receive such a rare honor is something special,” said head coach Danielle Jensen. “Aside from being amazing athletes and impact players for our team, Kiara and Sunny are outstanding young women whose character and integrity match the talent that they display on the court. They have both worked hard to deserve this and I look forward to seeing where their volleyball careers will take them after their time here at USU Eastern,” she added.