After leading the Sweet Home volleyball team to its first state finals tournament appearance in 15 years, Megan Graville, Tiffany Miller and Annie Whitfield were named the 2011 Huskies’ Outstanding Players at the team’s awards dessert Wednesday, Nov. 16.
The Huskies finished the season 18-7 overall and second in the Sky-Em Conference with a 7-3 record.
I just wanted to say how proud I am of these girls,” said second-year Coach Alicia Meier, who loses eight seniors who have played together since junior high. “The hard work of the entire team allowed these girls to be recognized.
“I am proud of the team for accomplishing our goal of making it to the top 8 tourney at Lane Community College. I would also like to recognize Megan Graville and Sonya Corliss, who were both key factors in the success of the program.”
Most Improved was Corliss, a “fantastic blocker” whose hitting improved this year with better timing, Meier said.
Most Inspirational was Emili Riggs, one of the team’s two captains, who was injured for much of the season, but proved to be a leader, “solving problems on the team,” Meier said. She said all the awards were voted on by team members.
The Hustle Award went to Devyn Makin, who was the player in the best physical shape, Meier said.
Four-year letter winners were Miller, Whitfield, Makin, Riggs and Brandi Trewin. Graville received her third-year third letter. Corliss received her second letter, along with Hailey Fisher, Amanda Hubbard and Jadyn Baskin.
First-year letters went to Danielle Landucci and Harley Brendle. Landucci, who transferred from Lebanon prior to the season, “brought up the level of play” with her arrival, Meier said, while Brendle served as manager after suffering an injury that left her unable to play.
She said the team did well academically.
“I never had to worry about grade checks,” she said.
Junior varsity certificates were presented to Alena Davis, Sierra Thayer, Cyrstal Crites, Hannah Mather, Sam Lawrence, Mckenzie Cochran, Sam Ashlock, Carissa Sipe, Lindsey Martin, Jordan Miller, Shantel Pitts and Emily Marchbanks.
Meier also announced that she is holding tryouts for a 16 and Under Club Team from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 29, at Sweet Home Junior High.
For more information, contact Meier at (541) 420-5472.