April 8, 2014

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky junior Jackie Napper has been selected to the U.S. Collegiate National Team program, it was announced by USA Volleyball on Tuesday. The team will train and compete in conjunction with the USA Volleyball Girls’ Junior National Championships, June 22 to July 1 in Minneapolis.

Napper is one of six liberos to be named to the 36-player team. The roster includes collegiate athletes from across the country that have remaining eligibility.

“It’s going to be a great experience,” Napper said. “It’ll be a lot of fun to compete against some of the best players, the highest level of competition. I’m lucky enough to have the opportunity to have more experience and play with and against the best.”

As a junior, Napper led the Wildcats with 443 digs to average 3.99 digs per set. She added 111 assists and 15 service aces. The Louisville native started at libero in all 31 matches for UK in 2013.

“Jackie has earned this opportunity and we’re proud of her for getting this chance,” UK head coach Craig Skinner said. “No one puts more time and effort into mastering her skill. Team USA will enjoy having her.”

Sophomore Morgan Bergren also was selected to Team USA last month and will compete on the 12-person U.S. Collegiate National Team that will play in China from June 17-27. Sophomore Anni Thomasson and freshman Emily Franklin also tried out for various USA Volleyball teams in February.

Visit UKathletics.com for the most up-to-date information on the Kentucky volleyball team and all 22 varsity sports. For additional info on the volleyball team like Kentucky Volleyball on Facebook or follow the team on Twitter at @KentuckyVB.