Upshaw-Mendoza Named All-AAC

WALESKA, Ga. - Kristin Upshaw-Mendoza has been named to the All-AAC volleyball team. For her efforts during the 2022-23 season, the conference coaches voted her inclusion to the 2nd Team as an outside hitter.

The Appalachian Athletic Conference announced the entire 2022 Women's Volleyball All-AAC Team and Awards on Wednesday.

Kira Rymer of Columbia International is the Player of the Year, while Julieanne Saliba of Brenau is the Libero of the Year and Nayerly Jimenez of Bluefield is the Setter of the Year. Kelcey Mangum of Columbia International is the Freshman of the Year, Amber Haver of Columbia International is the Coach of the Year, and Tessa Colden is the Assistant Coach of the Year.

The awards were voted on and selected by the women's volleyball coaches of the AAC.

In 20 conference matches, Rymer averaged 4.62 kills per set and boasted a .420 hitting percentage. She amassed 286 kills, 36 blocks, and 36 digs during league play.

Saliba registered a 5.43 digs-per-set average over 20 conference matches. She tallied 413 digs to go along with 65 assists and 29 service aces in conference play.

Jimenez recorded 762 assists in conference action for an average of 10.3 in 21 AAC contests. She also had 180 digs, 22 kills, 17 aces, and 11 blocks during the conference season.

Mangum logged a 5.09 digs-per-set average in 20 conference games. She tallied 336 digs, 81 assists, and 21 aces in league play.

Haver guided Columbia International to the AAC regular-season championship with an 19-1 league record.

Colden has served admirably this season for Reinhardt, helping it a fourth-place showing in the regular season with a 16-4 conference mark.

Fourteen players earned a spot on the All-AAC First Team with 15 making the second team. In addition, six players make up the All-Freshmen Team. Dozens of players made the grade to earn a spot on the All-Academic Team, while 14 were named to the Champions of Character Team.

For a complete look at the awards, click here.