ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) – The American Athletic Conference announced its preseason award winners which included a pair of Knights as the result of its 2016 women's volleyball preseason coaches' poll Monday.
Senior Jale Hervey and redshirt junior Kia Bright were both named to preseason all-conference squad.
Hervey, a unanimous selection, had 386 kills, 90 digs and a .239 hitting percentage through 98 sets in 2015. Bright tallied 195 kills, 143 digs, and .258 hitting percentage before suffering a season-ending injury. Head coach Todd Dagenais had high praise for both players coming into the season.
"Jale really stepped up last year when we battled with some injuries, and really showed she could be the lead dog of a pack," Dagenais said. "Having Kia return to the list after missing a year due to injury is another show of respect from the coaches."
UCF ranked fourth in the preseason poll with 73 points, just behind SMU (who recorded 82 points). Temple placed second with two first-place votes and 88 points. Cincinnati recorded seven first-place votes, topping the list with 96 points.
Head coach Todd Dagenais acknowledged that the Bearcats were deserving of the top spot, but pointed out that the Knights are eager to show what they can do.
"In terms of sitting in fourth, I believe that's an acceptable place to start," said Dagenais. "Who wins will come down to who can win on Sunday on the road."
The Knights, who are presented by Holiday Inn Orlando East, hit the hardwood for the annual Black and Gold Scrimmage on Saturday at 3 p.m. Admission is free at The Venue.