Four members of the Shepherd University volleyball team, including senior setter Victoria Nicholes, senior libero Claire Ellis, junior middle blocker Joi Fairweather, and junior middle hitter Renee Killough, have been named to the 2023 Academic All‐District® Women's Volleyball Teams, recognizing their outstanding performance on the court and in the classroom.

Why It Matters

The recognition highlights the exceptional dedication and achievements of student-athletes, emphasizing the importance of balancing academic excellence with athletic success.

By the Numbers
  • Nicholes carries a 3.96 GPA, with 804 assists and 272 digs.
  • Ellis boasts a 3.73 GPA, achieving 511 digs and 45 aces.
  • Fairweather maintains a 3.56 GPA and contributed 266 kills and 82 blocks.
  • Killough holds a 3.67 GPA and leads the team with 131 total blocks.
  • The Academic All-America® finalists will be announced on Jan. 9, 2024.
State of Play
  • The student-athletes have been considered for advancement to the CSC Academic All-America® ballot, with the finalists advancing to the national ballot to be voted on by CSC members.
  • Financial support from NCAA Division II and III, as well as NAIA governance structures, assists with handling the awards fulfillment aspects for the 2023-24 programs.
What's Next

The announcement of the first-, second-, and third-team Academic All-America® honorees will take place on Jan. 9, 2024.