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It’s your top men’s volleyball stories list, but with a twist.
Every Sunday during the men’s volleyball regular season, Off the Block will post the 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.
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.
Gevis rises to challenge for Loyola
Matt Le Cren | Naperville Sun
Opposite Ricky Gevis in his sophomore season has emerged as a leader for No. 12 Loyola and a player who no longer cares about winning individual awards. This personality profile looks at how Gevis has continued to develop his leadership and volleyball skills this season.
Penn State’s Nugent proving to be consistent
Giana Han | The Daily Collegian
It has been an adjustment this season for Penn State all-conference outside attacker Chris Nugent being the team’s primarily offensive option. This personality profile story examines how Nugent has embraced his new role that comes with facing multiple blockers on every attack attempt.
IPFW falls to No. 1/2 Ohio State
Aubree Reichel | The Journal Gazette
Coach Rock Perrotte had plenty of reasons to be optimistic Saturday despite a three-game loss to first-place No. 1/2 Ohio State on the team’s senior night. This deadline game story focuses on how each game being within three points will give last-place IPFW more confidence entering the final weeks of the regular season.