Player of the Week: November 7, 2011

Each Monday in the fall, one collegiate player originally reported as a recruit by AVSR is named AVSR Player of the Week for her performance in the past week and current season.

Player of the Week:Kiriana Hirini

University of Alabama at Birmingham
Freshman (redshirt); 6'1"Middle Blocker
Home:Tauranga, New Zealand
Reported by AVSR:October 2009
See Kiri Hirini’s bio and a news release at the UAB web site.

Last week’s action:
• A reserve player all year, Hirini suddenly became a star. She scored 15 blocks in six sets, averaging 2.5 blocks per set with no errors as UAB beat Texas-El Paso in two matches.
• Besides leading UAB’s blockers, Hirini attacked at .267 efficiency and added nine digs.

• The two wins lifted UAB to second place in 12-team Conference USA.

Excerpt from original AVSR report (2009):
“A strong, fluid athlete and clean, controlled player. .... Solid foundation of advanced skills plus much talent for development. .... Big-shouldered, easy-moving blocker, but she needs more experience against high-level offenses.”

Special Mention:Aleksandra Nowak

Kent State University
Sophomore; 6' 0"Setter
Home:Damnica, Poland
Reported by AVSR:April 2010
See Aleksandra Nowak's bio at the Kent State web site.

Last week’s action:
• Delivered 102 assists in a pair of five-set matches, guiding Kent State to a surprise victory over Eastern Michigan after losing at Ohio.
• Added eight blocks and 24 digs. Nowak is Kent’s second leading blocker this season.

Excerpt from original AVSR report (2010):
"Mature, veteran setter and natural leader. .... Exceptionally steady, low-drama playmaker. .... Executes a poised, patient game in an easy, technically sharp manner."