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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.
Cal Baptist sends message in win vs. UCLA
Jim Alexander | The Press-Enterprise
No. 8 Cal Baptist upset No. 3 UCLA on Thursday to move into sixth place in the MPSF but will be ineligible for the upcoming conference tournament as the Lancers complete their transition to NCAA. This column discusses the hypocrisy of Cal Baptist not being eligible and how the despite the ban the Lancers are playing their best volleyball with nothing to play for.
Assistant coach brings wealth of knowledge to Penn State
Darian Somers | The Daily Collegian
After opting to sign with rival Ohio State as a high school recruit, Colin McMillan returned to Penn State following his playing career to become an assistant coach. This feature story looks at the path McMillan took to come back to Penn State and the benefits his journey provided the Nittany Lions this season.
BYU seniors wrap up regular season
Trent Christiansen | The Universe
BYU following its sweep against USC last weekend honored its four seniors as part of senior night. This news-feature story focuses on how each senior has been able to contribute to the Cougars winning the program’s first MPSF regular season title since 2004.
Goodell provides laughs, offensive production for Penn State
Darian Somers | The Daily Collegian
Penn State outside attacker Nick Goodell has not only emerged recently has an offensive threat for the Nittany Lions, but also as the player who can keep his teammates relaxed before matches. This personality profile examines Goodell’s role on the team and his joking around being a positive attribute.
49ers’ Olbright sets himself up for greatness
Spencer Pirdy | Daily 49er
Long Beach State setter Connor Olbright is among the national leaders in assists per game and helped guide the 49ers to a top-five national ranking this season. This feature story looks at how Olbright’s demeanor on the court has helped put Long Beach State in a position to potential reach the Final Four.