What's Happening?
Nebraska junior setter Bergen Reilly has been named one of four finalists for the AVCA Division I Women's Volleyball Player of the Year Award. Reilly's performance this season has been instrumental in leading the Nebraska Cornhuskers to a remarkable 33-1 overall record and an undefeated 20-0 mark in Big Ten play, securing their third consecutive conference title. Reilly has achieved a school-record .351 hitting percentage, the highest nationally and the best by a Big Ten team since 2009. Her individual statistics include an average of 10.47 assists per set and 2.70 digs per set, along with 73 kills, 67 blocks, and 19 aces. Reilly has also been honored as the Big Ten Player of the Year, Big Ten Setter of the Year, and has been named to the All-Big
Ten First Team for the third time. The announcement of the Player of the Year will take place on December 19 at the AVCA Awards Banquet in Kansas City.
Why It's Important?
Reilly's nomination and the team's success highlight the strength and competitiveness of Nebraska's volleyball program on a national level. Her achievements not only bring individual recognition but also elevate the profile of the team, potentially attracting more talent and support. The Cornhuskers' dominance in the Big Ten and their national ranking underscore the program's ability to maintain high performance standards. This success can have broader implications for the university, enhancing its reputation and potentially increasing enrollment and funding opportunities. For the sport of volleyball, Reilly's performance sets a benchmark for excellence, inspiring young athletes and contributing to the growth and popularity of women's volleyball in the U.S.
What's Next?
The upcoming announcement of the AVCA Player of the Year will be a significant event for Reilly and the Nebraska volleyball program. A win would further cement her legacy and the team's status in collegiate volleyball. Regardless of the outcome, the team will likely continue to build on this season's success, focusing on maintaining their competitive edge in future seasons. The recognition may also influence recruitment strategies, as the program seeks to attract top-tier talent to sustain its winning tradition.
