Eastern Kentucky University senior libero Josie Schmitendorf has been named the Atlantic Sun Conference Defensive Player of the Week, as announced today by the league’s headquarters in Atlanta.
Schmitendorf’s stellar performance at the Boston College Invitational, where EKU faced Texas Tech, Iona, and Boston College, earned her this recognition. Over the three matches, the Huntley, Illinois native averaged 4.20 digs and 1.0 assists per set and also recorded an ace.
In the matchup against Texas Tech, Schmitendorf led her team with 10 digs. She then posted a match-high 21 digs in EKU’s sweep of Iona. Against Boston College, her 11 digs not only contributed to the team’s effort but also propelled her into 10th place on EKU’s all-time career digs list, with 1,297 digs.
Through the first weekend of the volleyball season, Schmitendorf ranks second in the ASUN in digs per set, showcasing her defensive prowess.
EKU will next host the Geri Polvino Invitational (GPI) at the Rick Erdmann Olympic Sports Training Center (OSTC) starting Friday. The invitational will feature six matches over two days, with the Colonels taking on long-time rival Morehead State at 1 p.m. and Radford at 7 p.m. on Friday. EKU will wrap up the GPI on Saturday with a match against Youngstown State at 1:30 p.m.