December 2, 2022

Richard Bland's Durco named 2022 NJCAA DII Volleyball Player of the Year

Charlotte, NC – Richard Bland setter Karagyn Durco has been named the 2022 NJCAA Division II Volleyball Player of the Year. Durco receives the top individual honor after helping the Statesmen win their first NJCAA Division II Volleyball Championship title. The sophomore ranked the best in the nation statistically in assists per set (2^nd at 11.63), service aces (3^rd at 97), and assists (4^th at 1442).

"Karagyn is an extremely talented setter who brings so much to the game such as her court presence, serving, and ability to keep us in system," said Richard Bland head coach Stephanie Champine-Dryden. "She made the move to Richard Bland knowing she would be the only out of state player on the team and instantly developed a chemistry with them and became a leader. She is competitive, fast, and does a great job running the offense. Karagyn has a contagious energy she brings into every match, and she does not back down to challenges. She communicates effectively with her teammates and has been a great captain/leader to this team. She was a key piece to the success of our team this season."

In her sophomore campaign, Durco led the Statesmen to a 34-3 record and the program's first volleyball national title. The 5-foot 6-inch setter was named the Most Valuable Player of the national tournament, averaging 11.12 assists per set while totaling 45 digs with 8 service aces in four games.

In addition to earning tournament MVP, Durco was named the Region 10 Player of the Year, earned First Team NJCAA All-America honors, First Team All-Region 10 honors, and Region 10 Division II East Player of the Year.

Personal

Position: Setter

Height: 5'6"

Class: Sophomore

Pervious School: Terra State

Hometown: Rossford, OH

2021 Statistics

1,442 assists

11.63 assists per set

0.19 blocks per set

235 digs

1.90 digs per set