NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – For the second time in program history a Christopher Newport University volleyball player has been named the Sports Imports/AVCA National Player of the Week. Junior defensive specialist Abby Hogge has been honored by the American Volleyball Coaches Association for her impressive performance last week.

"Abby had an awesome weekend against some great teams. She always seems to rise to the occasion when we need her the most. I'm very proud of how well she played," said Head Coach Lindsay Birch.

The Captains improved to 7-2 over the weekend with three wins and a loss in the WU/Asics National Invite. The Captains defeated No. 8 Carthage 3-1, No. 20 Wisconsin-Whitewater 3-0, Ohio Northern 3-0, and fell to No. 2 Washington University 0-3.

In the Captains' first victory of the weekend Hogge had an incredible 40 digs setting a program record. She followed that match with 21 digs against Wisconsin-Whitewater and 23 versus Ohio Northern. In the Captains' only loss this weekend she added 22 digs to her total giving her 106 in the four matches.

Hogge was also honored by the USA South as the Defensive Player of the Week for her efforts.

Senior Jessie Heavenrich is the only other Captain to receive this honor. She was named National Player of the Week during the 2010 season.

Click here for the release from the AVCA