Two South varsity boys’ volleyball players have earned national recognition after being named to the AVCA All-American Watch List, becoming the first athletes in school history to receive this honor.
Head coach George Hagemaster said the recognition reflects the program’s growth and years of work. “There has never been a player from South named to this list,” Hagemaster said.
The American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) created the watch list to recognize high school athletes who contend for All-American honors. Players are nominated and evaluated based on performance, achievements, and overall impact on the court. Hagemaster said the list recognizes the top 500 players in the country.
“It finally means people are taking notice of this program we are building here,” Hagemaster said.
George Jimenez, libero, and Papaa Ofori, middle blocker, earned the honor while leading South in different ways.
Jimenez said learning he made the list came as a surprise.
“My initial reaction [was] I thought it was a joke, but I looked into it and found out [it] was serious,” Jimenez said. Jimenez said the honor validated the effort he has put into volleyball year-round.
“For me personally, being named [to the] AVCA All-American watchlist really made me think that all of the hard work I have put in during club and school season has finally paid off,” Jimenez said.
Hagemaster said Jimenez stands out because of his understanding of the game.
“[Jimenez] is a true student of the game and can anticipate what the other team is doing and direct the defense to adjust to the other team’s tendencies,” Hagemaster said.
Ofori found out while in class after receiving an email from Hagemaster.
“I was really excited and happy that my hard work was noticed,” Ofori said.
Ofori said his development has been shaped heavily by his coaches.
“My coaches have helped me a lot. They believed in me and taught me everything I know,” Ofori said.
Hagemaster said Ofori’s rise has been impressive because he has only played travel volleyball for two years.
“Papaa has incredible athletic talent that he has refined in the last two years. You walk into a gym and see him do a little bit of work, and you immediately notice him,” Hagemaster said.
With Jimenez committed to North Central College and Ofori to Lewis University, Hagemaster said their influence is already reaching younger players.
“We are seeing freshmen and sophomores now wanting to do what they have done,” Hagemaster said.
