HAMPTON, VA –It was an epic battle that played out to the end this afternoon at the 2010 CIAA Volleyball Championships as defending champions Chowan University beat Saint Augustine's College 3-2 to claim stake to this year's CIAA Volleyball Championships. Chowan claimed their second championship in as many years in the league. Chowan's Victoria Lewis was named the 2010 Tournament MVP after putting down 18 kills and getting 19 digs. (CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTO GALLERY OF CHAMPIONSHIPS)
These two teams met twice during the year, each coming away with a win. Chowan downed the Lady Falcons in a CIAA cross over match in September and Saint Augustine's clipped the Hawks in pool play on day one of the championships on Friday. But it was the Hawks who came away with the win this afternoon. The Hawks earn an automatic bid to the NCAA DII Atlantic Region Tournament, November 19-20th. (Location to be announced at a later date.)
Chowan grinded out the five set match win with final set scores of 25-15, 19-25, 25-16, 29-27, and 15-8.
The Hawks out hit the Lady Falcons in the match and got and put three players in double digit kills. Karina Monroe led the Hawks with 19 kills and Monica Ruffin came in with 11 kills. Callie Armistead put up 49 assists for Chowan.
Saint Augustine's College (26-9) got a match-high 20 kills from outside hitter Kathryn Tokarski. She also had 15 digs. Stephony Newkirk had 11 kills and Shakira Carter had 10 kills and 10 digs.
Saint Augustine's College won the CIAA South Division Championship after going undefeated in their division. Head Coach Mortimer Covance was named the CIAA Coach of the Year. Chowan finished second in the CIAA Northern Division behind Elizabeth City State.
For a complete tournament recap, log onto the CIAA website at www.theciaa.com .
Members of the All Tournament are as follows:
Victoria Lewis, Chowan (MVP)
Karina Monroe, Chowan
Callie Armistead, Chowan
Nicholette Campbell, Saint Augustine's
Achari Manor, Fayetteville State
Whitney Green, Elizabeth City State
Octavia Wynn, Fayetteville State
Samantha Meeks, Fayetteville State
Kathryn Tokarski, Saint Augustine's
