Sunday, 13 Oct 2024

Burkland Receives Recognition as USAV Female Sitting Player of the Year

Monique Burkland, a standout player on the U.S. Women’s National Sitting Volleyball Team, has been named the 2019 USA Volleyball Female Sitting Player of the Year. This recognition comes after a remarkable season in 2019, where Burkland and her team achieved an undefeated record of 25-0 and secured their spot in the 2020 Paralympic Games.

Burkland’s individual accomplishments and contributions to the team were exceptional. She started in 24 out of the 25 matches played by Team USA in 2019, demonstrating her commitment and skill. Burkland averaged a team-leading 4.18 points per set, including 2.66 kills, 0.78 blocks, and 0.73 aces. Her attacking efficiency of 45.9% and hitting efficiency of .330 were the highest on the team.

Not only was Burkland a force on offense, but she also showcased her ability in the back row. With an average of 1.01 digs per set and a reception efficiency of .581, she proved to be a versatile player. Burkland’s outstanding performance earned her recognition as the Best Server at the World ParaVolley World Super 6 held in Japan.

Head Coach Bill Hamiter praised Burkland’s consistent high-level play throughout 2019, highlighting her exceptional skills in serving, passing, attacking, and defense. Burkland’s versatility and ability to play multiple positions on the court added value to the team’s strategies.

Tham Khảo Thêm:  2012 Olympic Games

Burkland expressed her excitement about receiving the Player of the Year award and acknowledged the collective effort of her team. She believes that continuous improvement is essential to stay ahead of their opponents and achieve success in the upcoming Paralympic Games.

Teammate Tia Edwards was also recognized as the 2019 USA Volleyball Female Sitting Most Improved Player of the Year. Edwards made significant statistical improvements in her game, particularly in attacking and blocking skills. Despite the challenges she faced due to a congenital birth defect in her left hand, Edwards overcame obstacles and embraced the use of a prosthetic arm, which significantly enhanced her performance on the court.

In conclusion, Burkland’s recognition as the USAV Female Sitting Player of the Year is well-deserved, considering her outstanding contributions to the U.S. Women’s National Sitting Volleyball Team. With the team’s undefeated record and their sights set on the Paralympic Games, Burkland and her teammates are continually striving for improvement and success.