May 5, 2008

The North Carolina volleyball team recently held its season-ending team banquet and honored its 2007 seniors along with the season's award winners. The Tar Heels wrapped up the 2008 spring season by claiming the Bronze Championship at the Spring College Tournament at the Great Lakes Center in Aurora, Ill.

Twenty-four teams from around the country took part in the Spring College Tournament as Carolina faced off against Kent State and Kansas State in pool play dropping a pair of close matches. In the best-of-three games format the Tar Heels fell to Kent State in three and Kansas State in two, despite holding two game points in the opener.

The Tar Heels fared much better in the tournament portion, taking down a pair of top 25 teams in Ohio and Michigan State before besting Illinois-Chicago for the Bronze Championship title.

The week following the final spring action the Pope Box in Kenan Stadium played host to the team's 2007 season banquet. A trio of seniors, Ashley Board, Bekah Brinkley and Christie Clark were all honored for their four years in Chapel Hill. Former Tar Heel defensive specialist, Miriam Fulford-Leshnock ('92) spoke to the team about her experience in the Carolina blue.

2007 Team Awards
Most Improved Player - Christine Vaughen
Rookie of the Year - Sue Haydel
Most Valuable Player - Brianna Eskola

The "Mighty Ram" Award - Megan Owens and Lauren Prussing
Given to the player who has demonstrated the most improvement in the spring season on the volleyball court and in the weight room.

The Carol and J. Hawley Oakes Award for Excellence - Ashley Board
Awarded to the player that sets high goals and works very hard every day to achieve these goals, and someone who demonstrates consistency and a competitive drive that sets a standard for her team's performance.

The John C. Lotz Memorial Award - Christie Clark
Given to the player who is the "unsung hero" of the team, who is willing to help her teammates succeed, and who also reaches into the community to help the less fortunate.

The Jean E. Kindy Memorial Award - Bekah Brinkley
Awarded to the player who embodies the memory of Jean E. Kindy's fighting spirit, perseverance, determination and the ability to be an inspiration to everyone while always maintaining a positive outlook.

The Sharon D. German Memorial Award - Stephanie Jansma

In memory of Carolina's first ACC Player of the Year in volleyball, this award is presented to the Outstanding Offensive Player at Carolina who plays with the same dedication to values, work ethic and success both on and off the court, as did Sharon.

Athletic Director's Scholar Athlete Award - Christie Clark
Presented to the graduating senior who has achieved academic excellence throughout her career and has earned the highest GPA of the graduating class.