Volleyball Punches Ticket To NJCAA D2 National Tournament

Hagerstown, Md- For the first time in program history, the Frederick Community College volleyball team has qualified for the NJCAA D2 National Championship Tournament. The Cougars clinched their bid to the National Tourney by defeating Potomac State College of WVU 3-1 on Sunday afternoon in the Region XX D2 Championship Match.

Emily Rabat turned in a stellar performance with a season high 21 kills in the match. Rabat took advantage of Potomac States' blockers finding gaps in their defense. Victoria Ketner finished the weekend leading her team with intensity and drive. Ketner ended the match with 18 digs, one of her highest achievements, only trumped by yesterday's season high 29 digs versus NOVA in the semi-finals. Coach Rippeon said, "Ketner's leadership is seen in every play through her vision and commitment on the court. We need passing to be successful and Victoria was solid this weekend."

Amy Gust also soared and recorded 16 kills on the day, her season best. The freshman outside hitter has transformed her game over the 2015 season earning her spot on the Region XX DII All-Tournament Team. Victoria Bryant ran the Lady Cougar offense and dished out an impressive 47 assists in the match. Sophomore Jackie Burns added eight kills in the victory today and proved to be a consistently aggressive player for the FCC attacking line in the tournament. Middles Colleen Weant and Erica Buls each added four kills. Buls contributed a team high of four blocks.

Coach Rippeon said, "This is an incredible group of young women who worked tirelessly day in and day out to achieve their goals. I am honored to have coached such a special group of young women who consistently gave their all to earn this title. It's been a season for the history books for FCC Volleyball!"

Four members from the FCC volleyball team earned All-Tournament honors including Ketner, Bryant, Gust, and Rabat who also was named Region XX Tournament MVP.

The No. 20 FCC Cougars are now 27-3 on the year and await their opponent for the National Tournament.

Phoenix College in Arizona will serve as host for this championship. Tournament action begins November 19th and concludes on November 21st.