Hope College’s Lauren Hazekamp and Jayne Kessel have been selected to the 2015 College Sports Information Directors of America Academic All-America® NCAA Division III Volleyball Team.

Both seniors were among six student-athletes named to the Academic All-America® Second Team and 18 in all honored by CoSIDA. 

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Kessel is a chemistry and Spanish double major who carries a 4.0 GPA. The senior from Byron Center, Michigan (Grand Rapids South Christian HS) plans to go to dental school after graduation.  

Kessel totaled 289 digs in 31 matches for the Flying Dutch this season. 

Hazekamp is an exercise science major who carries a 3.79 GPA. The senior from Fruitport, Michigan (Fruitport HS) also is minoring in management. She plans to go to graduate school for physical therapy after graduation. 

Hazekamp totaled 1,085 assists, 354 digs and 145 kills in 31 matches this season. 

Both Hazekamp and Kessel helped the Flying Dutch make their 13th Division III Tournament appearance this season. They both played on Hope’s 2014 national championship team. 

Kessel said being a student-athlete at Hope College has prepared her for the future. 

“What sets Hope apart is what they’ve given me as far as relationships with students and professors and competing in athletics at a high level,” Kessel said. “The chance to compete is a blessing in of itself. I have been challenged on the volleyball court. I have learned lessons about leadership, teamwork and about overcoming challenges.” 

Hazekamp said she has experienced a lot of growth while attending and playing for Hope College. 

“I’ve been pushed. I know that I can handle a lot more than I thought I could coming into my time at Hope,” Hazekamp said. “I’ve been encouraged by professors and coaches who have helped develop me into the person I am, ready for my next step.”