Four Edison State Volleyball Players Receive Conference Honors

The Edison State Community College volleyball team recently finished their winning season with a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 12 tournament appearance. Following their successful season, four volleyball players have been named recipients of post-season awards from the Ohio Community College Athletic Conference (OCCAC) for the 2022–23 season.

Taylor Lessing, of Sidney, has been named Setter of the Year. Lessing, a 5-foot-4-inch freshman, put up a total of 304 assists, averaging an impressive 6.47 assists per set in conference play.

"Taylor is an outstanding setter and makes good choices on offense," Head Volleyball Coach Julia Brandewie said. "She does a great job of getting the ball where it needs to be for our hitters to be successful."

Olivia Bradshaw, of Anna, has been named the recipient of the Sportsmanship Award. Bradshaw, a 5-foot-10-inch freshman defensive specialist and outside hitter, was selected for the award because of her dedication and support of her fellow teammates.

"Olivia consistently showed up to practice, worked hard, and supported her teammates and pushed them to be better," said Brandewie. "She didn't see much playing time this season, but when she did have the opportunity to get into a match, she went in and gave 100% every single time. She was also a big supporter of her teammates whether she played in the match or not. Olivia also continued to work hard all season to improve."

Brianna Slusher, of Troy, has been named All-OCCAC First Team. Slusher, a 5-foot-10-inch sophomore middle hitter, earned a total of 237 points, 176 digs, 194 kills, and 56 blocks in 14 conference games this season.

Since the 2020–21 season was canceled due to COVID, this was Slusher's third season with the team. Brandewie said, "She led our team in kills almost every game this season and overall. She is a very smart player and sees the court very well. She'll definitely be missed next season."

Sarah Clark, of Jackson Center, has been named All-OCCAC Second Team. Clark, a 5-foot-10-inch outside hitter, earned a total of 161 points, 108 digs, 137 kills, and 13 blocks in conference play during her freshman season.

"Sarah is only a freshman, so I'm excited to see what she can do next season," said Brandewie. "She's a powerful hitter outside and can move the ball around the court well."

The Lady Chargers finished the regular season 20-14 overall and 9-5 in the OCCAC. They participated in post-season play during the NJCAA Great Lakes District Tournament.

For more information, visit athletics.edisonohio.edu.