Keyser, W.Va. – West Virginia University Potomac State College volleyball player Alayzia Ward has been named to the 2019-20 NJCAA Region XX Division II First Team.

Ward, a Cumberland, Md. native, was the leader of the Catamount attack this season. According to Coach Martha Ganoe, "Alayzia brings a lot of power to our team.  She is a hard hit and can beat the ball through the block.  She brings good energy and excitement with her offensive abilities."

Ward's 4.68 kills per set places her fourth in the nation and her 5.5 points per set ranks her fifth in the nation in the final 2019-20 NJCAA statistical rankings, both marks lead Region XX.  

A freshman outside hitter, Ward led her Potomac State team in kills (276), total attacks (667) and service aces (41). A capable defender, she turned in a solid 125 digs on the season.

Coach Ganoe is clear that power isn't Ward's only asset. "What is overly impressive to me is that she battled a foot injury all season only to find out after the season was over that she was playing on a broken foot.  I can only imagine what she would have done offensively for us if she had been fresh and not injured." Ganoe continued, "She is a tough kid and proved it to us by pushing through the pain and performing game in and game out."

Ward was also named to the Division II Region XX All-Tournament team for her performance at this year's Region XX Volleyball Tournament. Her play this year helped the Catamounts to an 8-9 overall record and a 7-4 record against Region XX Division II opponents.

Ganoe is eagerly anticipating Ward's Sophomore year. "She had a season high of 24 kills against Frederick Community College and had 5 double doubles this year.  I am excited to see where Alayzia can take us next season when she is healthy."