Jacy Zollar, sports@wolfrivermedia.com
MIRANDA WASHINAWATOK
Miranda Washinawatok, a graduate of Shawano Community High School, was last week’s American Collegiate Athletic Association Women’s Volleyball Player of the Week.
Washinawatok is a freshman outside hitter for the University of Maine-Presque Isle.
“I told my teammates right away that it wouldn’t have been possible without them,” Washinawatok said. “It takes six players to either win or lose a game, so it all came with the help of them and to past coaches and people I’ve been able to work with in volleyball, because I’m only as good as my coaches.”
Washinawatok received the award after averaging three kills per game and hitting .236 to help the Owls to a 3-1 start to its season. Washinawatok led the team in kills in two of the four matches, contributing to the team’s three sweeps.
Washinawatok played varsity all four years at SCHS.
“Being able to play varsity my entire time in high school was one of the biggest goals I’ve accomplished,” Washinawatok said. “I have to give thanks to all the coaches who let me play there and saw me as a good player and pushed me to be better. When I’m having tough days at practice here, I think back to the fun I had at Shawano and it helps me remember why I love playing.”
Washinawatok is the first player on her team and in her conference to receive the award.
“Being the first to receive this was such an honor,” she said. “I had no clue it was coming my way, so when I heard the news, it was a great surprise.”
While Washinawatok is calling the east coast home for the next four years, she’s still very connected to her hometown.
“I’m proud to be able to tell people I’m from Shawano,” she said. “I love knowing I come from an athletically prestigious small town and reservation. I like that I can share that with people.”
She said she chose UMPI because she “wanted to live in a place other then the Midwest and still feel at home.”
She is the daughter of Daniel Husby and Tanaes Washinawatok.