Beach volleyball is gaining momentum heading into next season, with Chattanooga junior Nevaeh Clark being named the Ohio Valley Conference's 2024 Preseason Player of the Year for the second year in a row.
The beach volleyball star's gratitude is clear. “I was honored to be named OVC Player of the Year last season and preseason POTY this season,” Clark said. “I really appreciate the way my coaches recognized my performance and dedication. Both my team and coaches play a huge role in pushing me to get better every day. I'm excited to help lead the team to success this year.”
After a stellar second year in 2023 with an 18-13 record and All-OVC First Team honors and OVC Player of the Year honors, she aims to repeat her success in 2024. I am. The No. 9 sensation from Woodstock, Georgia, is an exceptional athlete who finished both her freshman and sophomore seasons with records above .500.
Clark is well aware that the magnitude of being an extraordinary human being correlates to her extraordinary play. “I am a very passionate and ambitious person and I believe that shines through my love for the game,” she said. “I'm always looking for ways to improve my game and help improve the game of others. I'm always looking to the other side of the net to spend more time than they do. , I want to know what I pushed myself to do.” It's very fitting that she strives harder than ever to not only improve herself, but also improve those around her.
Clark transitioned from Woodstock Wolverine to Mock in 2022. She finished her freshman season with a win and a record of 22 wins and 10 losses. 12 straight sets for 2nd place, 2 straight sets for 1st place. Her passion for the game and being a great teammate is contagious and carries throughout the locker room.
“It's a pleasure to coach Nevaeh,” said sixth-year head coach Darrin Van Horn, who has an impressive resume of her own. “She has an inner drive and holds herself to high standards. She's a student of the game, always watching the game, always watching the game, studying film.More importantly, she puts the team first. She understands that her success can only come from the success of her team.”
Van Horn has witnessed Clark's evolution as both a teammate and a player. Praising the coaching staff is a huge compliment. Van Horn praised Nevaeh's growth, saying, “As she transitions into a leadership role, she has learned to bring out the best in her teammates, whether it's a partner, a particular pair, or the team as a whole.” Be honest but supportive. ”
Overall, Nevaeh Clark boasts an impressive overall record of 38 wins and 23 losses for the UTC Beach Volleyball team. Her accolades for the junior from Woodstock continue to grow, and this OVC 2024 Preseason Player of the Year award is just another feather in her cap. Regarding her 2024 campaign, Clark said: “This season is going to be special. I'm very excited and motivated for the season ahead. My team and I have worked hard in preseason and we're excited to bring this season together. We want to start this season and make it a memorable season.”
