Sophomore Anna Sash swings for a kill against Augsburg University on Sept. 27. Photo courtesy of Julie Drewes, Marketing and Communication.
Leading the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) and currently ranked fourth in total blocks in Division III, Anna Sash, a middle hitter for the Wartburg Volleyball team, has been making a statement in her sophomore year.
With 79 total blocks, already surpassing her 58 total blocks from last season, Sash has proved to be a dominant defender for her team. Additionally, her 171 kills only halfway through the season are also a significant step up from her 150 kills as a freshman, showing her versatility as both an offensive and defensive asset.
While her individual statistics speak volumes, Sash credits the relationships with her teammates for her increased confidence on the court that allows her to see so much success in her performance.
“I just feel more comfortable this year,” Sash says. “It feels really great being back with my team… and getting to know them through the off season too, really working on that connection and getting it down.”
On Sept. 29, the American Rivers Conference named Sash the Women’s Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week. Wartburg Volleyball Head Coach DeAnn Akins can attest to the work ethic that has allowed Sash to become a breakout player deserving of this recognition.
“She’s one of those people that’s going to come in and get extra reps as much as possible, whether that’s individually or [with] a small group of people,” Akins says. “She doesn’t shy away from hard work or putting in extra work.”
Sash notes how the team’s focused mindset has allowed her and her teammates to see consistent growth throughout the season.
“When we know something hasn’t [been] working well, we want to get better at it,” Sash explains. “We’ll come in early, we’ll work on it, and in practice, [we’re] really focused and dialed in.”
Despite the rankings and awards, Akins is most proud of the leadership role Sash has stepped into, and the teammate she continues to be.
“She’s really just a great role model for everybody else… she’s one of the hardest workers in the gym and she truly has her heart and soul into it,” Akins says. “And she’s not only that, she’s a great student, she’s just a really good person and it’s really easy to cheer on people like that.”
Sash and the Wartburg Volleyball team will be in action next in Levick Arena on Friday, Oct. 17 for their next home conference match against Simpson College.
To find more information on Sash and the Wartburg Volleyball team, check out the Wartburg Athletics page.
