In a remarkable achievement for the University of Louisville volleyball team, two of its players, Anna DeBeer and Elena Scott, have been voted to the American Volleyball Coaches Association All-America Second Team. Middle blocker Cara Cresse was also recognized for her outstanding performance this season by being voted to the Third Team.
This marks Scott’s second appearance on the second team, as she made the list last season during Louisville’s run to the National Finals. DeBeer, on the other hand, missed the majority of last season due to injury and was therefore not eligible. However, she more than made up for it this year, earning several accolades including being named East Region Player of the Year and first team All-East Region, as well as NCAA All-Regional.
DeBeer, who plays as an outside hitter, led the team in kills, points, and double doubles this season. She was also named ACC Player of the Year and First Team All-ACC. Some of her standout performances include a double-double with 19 kills and 13 digs against Creighton in the Sweet 16, as well as career-highs of 29 kills and 30 points against No. 7 Pittsburgh. She also joined the 1,000 Career Kill Club this year, cementing her status as one of the top players in the country.
Scott, a native of Louisville, was voted First Team AVCA All-East Region and NCAA All-Regional this season. She was recognized as the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and First Team All-ACC. Scott led the team and the ACC in digs and aces, while also contributing to the team’s assist count. She showcased her defensive prowess week after week, earning the ACC Defensive Player of the Week accolade twice this season. In addition, she ranked 61st nationally in digs per set and consistently performed at a high level against top 50 opponents.
Cresse, another standout player for Louisville, was voted First Team All-East Region and Second Team All-ACC. She led the team in blocks and hitting percentage this season. Cresse’s outstanding hitting percentage ranked her fifth nationally among all players, and she maintained an impressive .455 hitting percentage during the NCAA Tournament. She also earned both ACC Defensive Player of the Week and ACC Offensive Player of the Week honors this year. Cresse had several career-high performances, including hitting .500 or higher in 10 matches.
The recognition received by DeBeer, Scott, and Cresse is a testament to their incredible talent and contribution to the Louisville volleyball team’s success. Their dedication and skill on the court have undoubtedly played a significant role in the team’s achievements this season.
