Tipiana selected as Big East Player of the Week

Sept. 2, 2002

CORAL GABLES, FLA. (www.hurricanesports.com) – – It didn’t take long for the University of Miami women’s volleyball program to start making waves in the Big East Conference during its first season of membership.

Sophomore rightside hitter Valeria Tipiana (Lima, Peru/ Cristo Rey HS) was selected as the Big East Player of the Week in the wake of her outstanding performance at the Wichita State Tournament last weekend.

Tipiana, who was also voted the tournament MVP, recorded 64 kills with a .358 hitting percentage. She was also a force for the Hurricanes on defense with 42 digs.

Hurricane coach Nicole Lantagne Welch cited Tipiana’s versatility as her primary strength, noting that the sophomore rightside hitter is also a solid passer.

“(Tipiana) has had a tremendous preseason,” Lantagne Welch said. “Our staff has high expectations for her this season.”

She recorded double-doubles in the Hurricanes’ 3-1 win over New Mexico (13 kills, 12 digs) and their 3-1 win over Stephen F. Austin (16 kills, 15 digs).

Tipiana was also instrumental in UM’s 3-1 win over Georgia and a 3-0 sweep of host team Wichita State, which sealed the tournament title.

UM will host the 2002 Hurricane Invitational this weekend starting with a 10 a.m. tilt Friday between Fordham and Oregon.

The Hurricanes’ first match will be at 12:30 when they square off against Howard. At 4:30 p.m., Howard plays Oregon and, at 7 p.m., Miami faces Oregon.

Saturday’s matches begin with Oregon vs. Howard at 12:30 and then the Hurricanes vs. Fordham at 3p.m.

All matches will be played at the Knight Sports Complex on the Coral Gables campus.

Those seeking information regarding the 2002 Hurricane Invitational or any other volleyball event this season should call 1-800-GO-CANES.