Ball State University Athletics
Alyssa Rio Claims Second-Straight MAC Weekly Honor
October 04, 2010 | Women's Volleyball
?? MUNCIE, Ind. - - For the second week in a row, Ball State women's volleyball senior libero Alyssa Rio (Wayne, Ill./St. Francis H.S.) has been named the Mid-American Conference West Division Defensive Player of the Week. This is the third time in her career Rio has earned the honor.
?? "Alyssa had another great weekend, helping guide our team past two strong opponents with her solid defensive play," said head coach Steve Shondell. "She is making the most of her senior year, and developing into one of the premier liberos in the country."
?? Rio continued her defensive dominance last weekend as the Cardinals earned league wins over Central Michigan (3-1) and Eastern Michigan (3-0). She collected 26 digs in each contest to finish the week with 52 and a 7.43 digs-per-set average. The effort raised her season digs-per-set average to an NCAA-leading 5.95.
?? In the win over CMU, her 26 digs were 12 more than her closest competitor and helped BSU limit CMU to a season-low .106 attack percentage. In the victory over Eastern Michigan, Rio's 26 digs were seven more than her closest competitor and helped limit the Eagles to their third-lowest offensive mark of the season at .130.
?? Rio also handed out eight assists, collected an ace and posted a .935 (27 for 29) reception percentage in the two contests.
?? Rio and the Ball State women's volleyball team returns to action Thursday, when they travel to Toledo for? 7 p.m. first serve versus the Rockets. Saturday, the Cardinals play a 5 p.m. contest at Buffalo.
