Hope junior Lauren Hazekamp has been selected the Sports Imports/American Volleyball Coaches Association NCAA Division III National Player of the Week.
The setter from Fruitport, Michigan (Fruitport HS), led the top-ranked and unbeaten Flying Dutch to four wins last week, including one at No. 7-ranked Mount Union (Ohio).
Hazekamp is the fourth Hope player to receive this national recognition. She joins Courtney Earles (2013), Jenna Grasmeyer (2012) and Jacie Fiedler (2010).
Hope coach Becky Schmidt said Hazekamp has made her mark on the Flying Dutch.
“We have a lot of special players at Hope, but Lauren certainly distinguishes herself as a talented competitor who makes those around her better,” Schmidt said. “She runs an offense that is difficult to predict for opponents’ defenses and has stepped up significantly in her defense and serving. Lauren's ability to attack the second ball and be an offensive threat makes it that much harder for the defense to get ahead of our hitters.
“We are very proud of Lauren and this accomplishment, but also acknowledge that our defenders give her the pass and our hitters put it away. This is an honor for the whole team.”
Hazekamp totaled 147 kills during the week, including a season-high 42 against Capital (Ohio). She averaged 12.2 assists per set.
Hazekamp also recorded 25 kills in 41 attempts for a .561 hitting percentage. She totaled six service aces, including four against Mount Union.
On Monday, Hazekamp was named Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association Specialty Player of the Week.
Hazekamp and the Flying Dutch will go for their 20th win of the season on Wednesday, Oct. 8, when they play at Alma. Start time is 6:30 p.m.