UH volleyball takes WAC crown

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — In the Western Athletic Conference Volleyball Tournament Final on Wednesday, the University of Hawai‘i women’s volleyball team (28-1) swept New Mexico State, 25-22, 25-18, 25-20, to win its 11th tournament title.

Following the match, Jane Croson and Brittany Hewitt were named to the all-tournament team and Kanani Danielson was voted Most Valuable Player.

The defense was stingy on both sides. Croson put down a match-high 16 kills with Danielson adding 10 kills and a match-high 17 digs. Kalei Adolpho posted four blocks to go along with five kills, and Emily Maeda added 11 digs. Hawai‘i held New Mexico State (23-9) to a .018 attack percentage.

Meredith Hays led the Aggies in defeat, recording eight kills and 10 digs.

The ‘Bows won set one as both Danielson and Croson recorded six kills in the set. The Aggies were in the hunt for most of the set despite being out hit, out blocked, and out dug, and midway through they used a 5-1 run to take a 13-11 lead. UH responded with a run of its own to take the lead at 19-16. A pair of kills by Croson helped the ‘Bows increase the lead to 22-17 and hold on for the win.

Set two saw UH again fight off the Aggies, winning 25-18 to take a 2-0 lead heading into the break. Hawai‘i never trailed and pulled away midway through the set. A pair of kills by Hewitt gave UH a two-point lead, then a block and a kill by Adolpho put Hawai‘i ahead 17-13.

The ‘Bows were firing on all cylinders when set three rolled around. The Aggies stayed in contention but could not catch up, as UH coasted to the win and championship.

Hawai‘i now visits Cal State Fullerton for its regular season finale. First serve against the Titans is set for 7:00 p.m. PT tonight. 

2011 WAC Volleyball Tournament

All-Tournament Team:

Brianna Clarke, Fresno State

Allison Walker, Idaho

Jennah DeVries, New Mexico State

Meredith Hays, New Mexico State

Kelsi Phillips, New Mexico State

Jane Croson, Hawai‘i

Brittany Hewitt, Hawai‘i

MVP: Kanani Danielson, Hawai‘i