Contact: Nicholas Osterloo, Assistant Sports Information Director, 630-637-5324

2024 AVCA All-Americans

Nov. 27, 2024 - Earning the first American Volleyball Coaches Association All-American honor since 2007 for the North Central College women's volleyball team, libero Bailey Houlihan becomes the second Cardinal to collect the national honor in program history, receiving an honorable mention selection.

Racking up accolades, Houlihan has already earned First Team AVCA All-Region honors and was named the 2024 College Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin Defensive Player of the Year for her performance on the court. This season, Houlihan tallied 575 digs and 54 service aces while playing every set for the Cardinals.

"It is very rewarding to be named an All-American and it shows that my hard work and dedication has paid off," said Houlihan.

Against nationally ranked opponents, Houlihan ranked third in the country among All-Region players with 13 aces and seventh with 5.50 digs per set.

"This honor is a testament to my coaches and teammates who supported me throughout the season," Houlihan said. "I am proud to have had this opportunity to play my final season and to receive this award for North Central. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for this program. Go Cards!"

Houlihan joins Maggie Kelly '08 as one of the two Cardinals in program history to be selected as AVCA All-Americans. North Central posted a 22-8 record this season, including a 10-1 mark at home. The Cardinals advanced to the CCIW Tournament semifinals for the first time since 2007.

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