Four GHV volleyball players earn TIC West All-Conference honors

The Garner-Hayfield-Ventura volleyball team wrapped up its 2016 season with an 18-10 overall record.  Four players earned post-season recognition on the Top of Iowa West All-Conference teams.

Mackenzie Van Gerpen, a senior was a First Team selection.  Van Gerpen’s ability to mix up her skill set helped to contribute to the team’s success and a unanimous nomination by conference coaches.  She finished in the top 10 in kill efficiency, digs and ace serves.  She finished her high school career with 737 kills, which was third in GHV school history.  She had a kill efficiency per set of 2.62 and she also contributed 544 digs, which was the fourth highest in GHV history.

“Mackenzie is a talented all-around volleyball player that is able to play many different positions extremely well,” said Coach Kelsey Steffens.  “Although she is an outside hitter, to best help our team, she played one rotation as a middle and in the back row she played all three rotations as middle back.”

Hannah Lau was also a First Team selection,  Lau, a senior, was a four-year letter winner that brought tremendous experience to the team.

“Hannah’s presence in the front row was well-noted as she was successful both on offense and defense,” said Steffens.  “She was able to run and execute a complex offense.”

In the Top of Iowa West Conference, she finished ninth in kill efficiency and second in kills.  She is the new record holder for kills at GHV with a total of 902.  She averaged 2.96 kills per set, which is the second highest in school history.  She also led the team in blocks with 178.

Bailee Frayne, a junior, was named to the Second Team for her ability as a setter.  She finished fourth in the conference in assists with 143 and tied for eighth in ace serves with 13.

“Bailee’s work ethic was evident this year, as she did a nice job of getting the ball to our hitters.  Along with her offense, she offered up a strong block for opposing team’s outside hitters,” said Steffens.

Carlie Knutson earned Honorable Mention recognition in the Top of Iowa West Conference.  Knutson, a senior, finished the year with 105 kills and 144 digs.  Knutson’s ability to be a great teammate earned her the E. Wayne Cooley Award.  This award goes to an athlete who shows the elements of good character and who has influenced their team in a positive manner.

“Carlie was a valuable member of the team.  Her energy, positive attitude, and determination, both in practices and in competition, helped the team to be successful this year,” said Steffens.