Hopkins, Durco, Heath Named All-Americans; Dryden Coach Of The Year
SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA - The Richard Bland women's volleyball team closed the season 34-3 after taking down #6 Scottsdale Community College in the NJCAA Division II National Championship title match. For the first time in program history, women's volleyball has won not only one, but four matches in the NJCAA National Tournament, including the National Championship title. Along with the National Championship title, three individuals have been named to the NJCAA All-American teams, as well as Coach of the Year.
Hailey Hopkins and Karagyn Durco have been named to 1st Team All-American. Durco has also been named NJCAA Division II Player of the Year. Sarah Heath has been named 2nd Team All-American, and head coach Stephanie Dryden has been named NJCAA Division II Coach of the Year.
In 36 matches played, Hopkins has tallied 359 kills for an average of 2.97 kills per set, with a .395 attacking percentage. Hopkins has also added 12 digs, 23 solo blocks for 112 total.
In 36 matches played, Durco has tallied 32 kills and 1,442 assists for a 11.63 assist per set average. Durco has also been credited with 97 service aces, 235 digs, one solo block with 22 block assists, for a total of 23.
In 36 matches played, Heath tallied 341 kills for an average of 2.87 kills per set, with a .245 attacking percentage. Heath has also added 41 service aces, 210 digs, and two solo blocks.
First year head coach Stephanie Dryden has been named NJCAA Division II Coach of the Year for the 2022 season. Dryden has led the women's volleyball team to a 34-3 overall record, including an undefeated 12-0 conference season. Dryden has also garnered Region 10 Coach of the Year, while leading the team to a National Championship title for the first time in program history. She secured her 100th coaching win in the title game.