Athlete of the Week: Samantha Rimann

Sam Rimann is No. 3 in the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference for digs per set and No. 4 for season digs. Photo by Galed Kristjayanta

by Kymee Noll – Horizon Sports Editor  

The Hesston College volleyball team is off to a good start, already surpassing last season’s number of wins with a 9-3 record.  Part of the reason for this success?  Libero Samantha Rimann.  This 5-foot-8-inch sophomore out of Liberty Hill, Texas is putting up outstanding numbers that aren’t only recognized by the community, but on the national level.

After seven games, Rimann is No. 3 in the nation, in all JUCOs, for digs per set and No. 4 in the nation for season digs.  Sam is averaging 6.89 digs per set, 186 digs total for the season.  In addition to her national recognition, she also earned a spot on the all-tournament team at the Vernon Community College tournament (Texas).

“She does a great job covering the court,” Coach Jessica Cleveland commented.  “Her solid jump serve gets the other team out of system, giving us a high scoring opportunity.”

Freshmen teammates Casey Perez and Karli Rodriguez look to Rimann for leadership on the court.

“She is always laughing and has a positive attitude,” said Perez (Kalona, Iowa).  “Sam is constantly pushing us to better ourselves and play at a higher level.  She’s a great leader and fun to play with.”

Rodriguez (Harker Heights, Texas) says she knows Rimann has her back.

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Sam Rimann anticipates her next dig. Photo by Masayo Satoh

“I don’t have to worry about defense or serve receive because she’s in the back row doing her job” said Rodriguez.  “She is always directing traffic and is a very consistent player, we are lucky to have her.”

Cleveland also praised Rimann on her academic achievements.

“Sam not only does well on the court but in the classroom as well,” she said.  “She is a great student-athlete role model.”

The Larks’ next game is at home on Wednesday, Sept.17 versus No. 3 in the nation, Johnson County Community College Cavaliers (Overland Park) at 5:30 p.m.

 

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