Volleyball Claims Two Conference Awards

Nov. 22, 2002

Pittsburgh, Pa.- The University of Miami volleyball team in only its first year in the BIG EAST conference earned two regular season awards announced at the pre-championship banquet on Friday night. Sophomore outside hitter Valeria Tipiana was named BIG EAST Player of the Year, while sophomore setter Mallorey James earned Setter of the Year honors.

Tipiana helped lead Miami to a 10-3 conference record (22-4 overall) in its first season in conference play. She led the Hurricanes in hitting percentage (.336), second on the team in kills (4.19 per game) and third in digs (2.69) and blocks (0.86). Additionally, Tipiana ranks second in conference matches with 4.83 kills and fifth in hitting at .332.

James helped Miami earn its title as the conference’s best hitting team. She averaged 14.73 assists in conference play and 13.53 overall to lead the BIG EAST. The Hurricanes led the BIG EAST in hitting (.268), kills (16.55) and assists (14.86). Miami also ranked 19th in kills and 21st in assists in the NCAA.

Additionally, the Hurricanes took three of the five spots in the All-BIG EAST First Team, including senior outside hitter Marcela Gamarra, Mallorey James and Valeria Tipiana.

Gamarra was vital to Miami’s success this season as she led the team in kills averaging 4.23 per game. She also ranks second in digs (3.07 per game) and third in attack percentage (.281).

The Hurricanes will face Virginia Tech on Saturday, Nov. 23 at 3:30 p.m. in the opening round of the BIG EAST Tournament in Pittsburgh, Pa.