Hope senior Courtney Earles has been chosen the Sports Imports/American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) NCAA Division III Player of the Week.

The middle hitter from Kentwood (East Kentwood HS) totaled 21 kills for an attack percentage of .556 and six blocks last week. She helped the Flying Dutch win two matches, including a five-setter against top-ranked Calvin, to move into a share of first place in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) standings.

Hope coach Becky Schmidt said the Flying Dutch are proud of and excited for Earles to receive the AVCA honor.

"Her ability to see the court and play smart volleyball is helping our team execute with high efficiency and as a leader, she brings a steady confidence to our side of the net," Schmidt said. "Courtney has worked very hard to overcome the adversity of a torn ACL last season and the hard work is paying off." 

Earles is the third Hope player to receive this national recognition. Jenna Grasmeyer earned it in 2012, while Jacie Fiedler claimed it during the 2010 season.

On Friday, Earles totaled 12 kills and three blocks as Hope rallied to defeat Calvin in five sets, ending the Knights' 49-match MIAA winning streak dating back to 2010.

On Saturday, Earles had nine kills in 11 attempts (.818 percentage) and three blocks in a sweep of Saint Mary's that was less than 24 hours after the Calvin match.

Earles was named MIAA Position Player of the Week on Monday.