Nipps Draws North Eastern Athletic Conference Award

GANSEVOORT, N.Y. – Freshman Derek Nipps (Turnersville, N.J.) of the Wells College men's volleyball program was selected as the North Eastern Athletic Conference Men's Volleyball Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week for his performance this past week for the Express, the conference office announced late Monday afternoon. Farruggia and the Express are off to the best start in their two-year program history, posting a 4-4 record through their first eight games of the calendar.

Against the Gryphons of Sarah Lawrence University, the Express swept both ends of a doubleheader by 3-0 set scores. Nipps, who collects his second NEAC award of the season, compiled 12 digs (2.0 d/set) and assisted three blocks during the doubleheader sweep. He also provided some offensive punch, posting 33 assists (5.50 a/set), 11 kills and three service aces. During the first match, the freshman setter registered four digs and a match-best three block assists in addition to 12 assists and seven kills.

In the second game of the doubleheader, he posted a team-best eight digs and a match-high 21 assists alongside four kills and three service aces in a 3-0 second match win. On the season, Nipps ranks third in the conference with a .220 hitting percentage while also ranking fourth overall with 4.42 assists pet set.

For a complete list of weekly award winners directly from the North Eastern Athletic Conference, click here.

The Express return to action Friday, Feb. 22 as they host visiting teams in the Wells College Invitational. Wells opens up play in the Invitational by hosting the Wildcats of SUNYIT in a 4:00 p.m. contest within the Frances Tarlton Farenthold Athletic Wing. Stay up to date with the latest news directly from the Wells College athletic department by "liking" us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/WellsExpress) and subscribing to our Twitter account (http://www.twitter.com/WellsExpress).