Sandhills Indoor and Beach Volleyball Earn 2026 AVCA Team Academic Awards

Sandhills Community College's commitment to excellence both on and off the court was recognized once again as both the Flyers Indoor and Beach Volleyball programs earned the 2026 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Team Academic Award.

The AVCA Team Academic Award honors collegiate and high school volleyball programs that maintain a year-long team grade point average of at least 3.30 on a 4.0 scale. During the 2025-26 academic year, 1,432 teams across the country received the distinction.

The Flyers' accomplishment was highlighted by the indoor volleyball program, which finished with the highest team GPA among all NJCAA Division III volleyball programs in the nation for the second consecutive year.

For Head Coach Alicia Riggan, the recognition reflects the culture the program has intentionally built.

"Our coaching philosophy is centered on developing the whole student-athlete," Riggan said. "While we strive for excellence on the volleyball court, our primary mission is to help our student-athletes grow as students, leaders, teammates, and individuals who are prepared for success beyond Sandhills Community College."

Riggan believes the qualities that create successful volleyball players—discipline, accountability, consistency, resilience, and a strong work ethic—are the same characteristics that drive academic achievement. Because of that, academics remain a central focus within the program.

Student-athletes meet weekly with a academic coach Marsha Apke to review their progress, discuss challenges, and develop strategies for continued success. In addition, every member of the program completes four hours of study hall each week. Faculty communication, academic monitoring, tutoring resources, and peer accountability all play important roles in the team's academic success.

Just as importantly, the Flyers celebrate success in the classroom with the same enthusiasm as success on the court. Strong grades, academic milestones, and personal growth are recognized throughout the year, while veteran players help establish a culture where younger teammates embrace the program's high academic standards.

"We emphasize that being a student comes before being an athlete," Riggan said. "Our student-athletes understand that their commitment to academics is a reflection of their commitment to the team."

The results have become a defining characteristic of Sandhills Volleyball. Along with consistent success in regional and national competition, the Flyers continue to demonstrate that excellence extends well beyond the final point of a match.

"This award is a testament to the dedication of our student-athletes, the support of our faculty and staff, and the culture we've built together," Riggan said. "We're proud that our commitment to academic achievement reflects the values of both our volleyball program and Sandhills Community College."