Custom Search BALTIMORE, Md. --- The Hampton University Lady Pirates knocked off Coppin State, 3-2, to capture its first-ever Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Volleyball Championship on Sunday afternoon at the Physical Education Complex on the campus of Coppin State University.
Hampton was led by Vendula Strakova with 25 kills and six digs in the match and was named the Tournament Outstanding Performer. Krista Kraskura added 12 kills and 13 digs, while Bibiany Fonseca dished out 46 assists. Sheileen Pagan finished with 18 digs to lead the Lady Pirates defensively.
Lady Pirates Head Coach Karen Weatherington was named the Outstanding Coach of the Year.
“There have been so many firsts this season and I am elated for my players,” Weatherington said. “I am glad to see all the hard work has paid off. They’ve all put in so many hours to get to the championship that many people don’t get to see. I am just so excited for them and so proud of them. They gave their all and that is why we are sitting here today as the conference champions.”
Cindy Okpegbue paced the Coppin State offense with 24 kills, while Chelsee Sauni finished with 52 assists. Gabrielle Otero and Ariel Richard chipped in with 18 and 13 digs, respectively.
Hampton University
2013 MEAC Volleyball Champions
Hampton (19-10) advances to the NCAA Tournament in December. The Lady Pirates will find out their seeding and their opponent on Sunday, December 1 at 9:30 p.m., during the NCAA selection show, which will air on ESPNU.
2013 All-Tournament Team
Vendula Strakova, Hampton
Cindy Opkegbue, Coppin State
Ginna Lopez-Chavez, Florida A&M
Katherine Huanec, Florida A&M
Katherine Broussard, Howard
Assata Conway, Howard
Outstanding Performer: Vendula Strakova, Hampton
Outstanding Coach: Karen Weatherington, Hampton