Falcon Volleyball Shines with Four Players Named to the FCSAA All-Region Teams
FORT MYERS, FL -The Falcon Volleyball team has had an outstanding season, with four of its talented players receiving recognition for their exceptional skills and contributions to the game. Sophomores Emma Testi and Julia Rienks secured their spots on the 1st Team All-Conference and All-Region team, while Mya Mendoza and Leia Lund earned spots on the 2nd Team All-Conference and All-Region team.
1st Team All-Region Standouts:
Emma Testi - Middle Blocker from Poggibonsi, Italy
Testi, a sophomore Middle Blocker hailing from Italy, has been a force to be reckoned with throughout the season in the Middle Hitter position. She led the team in blocks and hitting percentage and was ranked 2nd in the state for both statistical categories as well. In conference play, Testi delivered 220 kills, with a remarkable .396 hitting percentage. Her defensive skills were equally impressive, as she secured 87 blocks, 32 serving aces, and 92 digs on the season. Testi's performance was nothing short of exceptional, making her a key player in the Falcon's success.
Julia Rienks - Right Side from Friesland, Netherlands
Rienks, a sophomore Right Side player from the Netherlands, proved to be the team's offensive dynamo during conference play. Rienks led the Falcons with a staggering 243 kills which put her 5th in the region for total kills. In addition to her offensive game, Rienks contributed to the team’s defense with 61 blocks and 59 digs. Her play impressive to say the least and was certainly crucial to the team's success.
2nd Team All-Region Highlights:
Mya Mendoza - Setter from Longwood, Florida
Mendoza, a sophomore Setter from Longwood, Florida, showcased her skills as a playmaker on the court. She led the Falcons in assists with an impressive total of 421 and secured 32 kills while playing a 6-2 role. Mendoza's ability to lead the Falcons offense was only part of the reason she was selected for the all-state honors, her defensive play which included, 28 aces and 123 digs was huge for the Falcons and a major player in the team’s success this season.
Leia Lund - Outside Hitter from Stockholm, Sweden
Lund, a freshman Outside Hitter from Sweden, emerged as a key contributor to the Falcon's offensive over the course of conference play. Her tally of 187 kills, 40 aces, 158 digs, and 19 blocks during the season was indispensable for the team. Lund led the state in aces and was a commendable 8th in the state for kills as a freshman. Lund play as a rookie on the court is one that certainly is to be watched moving forward.
The recognition of these four exceptional players on the Citrus Conference All-Conference Team and FCSAA All-Region Teams is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and relentless drive. Their outstanding performances not only reflect their individual skills but also the collective success of the Falcon Volleyball team.
“To say I am proud of these 4 ladies would be an understatement. They have all worked day in and day out to get to where they are today, and they are all certainly deserving the recognition!” stated Head Coach Laura Booker Anderson. She continues to say, “I am all about ‘high-trust, low maintenance’ in our Falcon Volleyball program and without question these ladies fall into that category. Their success on the court this season is a direct result of putting in the work. I love it when the other coaches in the conference see in their play what I have the pleasure of seeing every single day. They stood out among the best of the best in our region and should be nothing, but proud of all they’ve accomplished! Honestly, I think the best is yet to come for these ladies.”
See Testi, Rienks, Mendoza, and Lund in action as the Falcons take on a talented #6 Hillsborough Community College at 1pm as they kick off play in the FCSAA Region 8 State Volleyball tournament in Ft. Myers, Florida.