Follow
It’s your top five men’s volleyball story list, but with a twist.
Every Sunday during the men’s volleyball regular season, Off the Block will post the top five best men’s volleyball stories of the week from around the nation. The list, though, is based more on how well the reporter wrote and covered the story rather than just what happened on the court.
Off the Block will be primarily looking at a college newspapers — they provide the majority of coverage to the sport — but occasionally it will include some well written men’s volleyball articles from professional newspapers.
In many communities volleyball is a non-mainstream sport that has a niche following. One of the exciting things for reporters covering volleyball, though, is finding that interesting angle that could appeal to volleyball and non-volleyball fans.
Going beyond the box score and game notes to provide readers with insight on the team that they can’t got anywhere else is one of the most important skills for a sports reporter.
This list is to honor those efforts.
Ball State moves into national rankings
Evan Barnum-Steggerda | The Ball State Daily News
For the first time in more than two years, Ball State became nationally ranked as it jump to No. 15 in the national coaches poll. This article, which uses several good direct quotes from players, focuses on the team’s excitement to be ranked and how they feel they deserve to be in the coaches poll.
Penn State assistant Hosack brings fiery edge
Darian Somers | The Daily Collegian
Jay Hosack during matches usually wears a casual attire, but that’s about the only thing that is casual for the Penn State assistant coach. This personality profile examines how Hosack’s competitive energy has helped Penn State this season and why the Southern California native decided to come to the East Coast.
Libero Cheape honored in Hawai’i home loss
Marc Arakaki and Jeremy Nitta | Ka Leo
Hawai’i’s only senior libero Matthew Cheape was honored following the team’s three-game loss to UC Santa Barbara on Saturday. This video package, which includes highlights and player interviews, focuses how despite the loss fans and players took time to celebrate the libero’s college career.
Penn State’s Curry fits into key position
Darian Somers | The Daily Collegian
Penn State sophomore libero Connor Curry is among the national and conference leaders averaging 2.45 digs per game this season. This feature story looks at how Curry has developed into a perfect fit for what the Nittany Lions’ coaching staff wants from him on the court.
Penn State snaps losing streak, sweeps St. Francis
Aaron Carr | The Daily Collegian
Penn State swept St. Francis last weekend to snap its three-match losing streak and remain in first place in the EIVA. This game story uses several nice direct quotes to show how the Nittany Lions were able to get a convincing victory against the Red Flashes.