2008 Woodie Awards
Fissel at full speed
Junior hitter leads MAC in kills, aces per game this season
By: Aaron Vigneault
Issue date: 10/24/07 Section: Sports
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The junior hitter had another outstanding performance last weekend, totaling 33 kills in only six games against Akron and Buffalo.
Fissel leads the MAC with 4.8 kills per game and 0.61 aces per game. She sports a vicious jump serve that has caused opponents problems this season, and is a big reason why the Chippewas lead the conference with 2.71 aces per game.
Coach Erik Olson knew Fissel could be a special player when he recruited her three years ago.
"Kate's an impressive player and when she's focused there aren't many as good as her," Olson said. "We're lucky to have her."
As well as posting league-leading statistics, Fissel's presence also has impacted the stat sheet for her teammates. She has drawn extra blockers and opened up the court up for the rest of the team.
Each opponent's extra focus on Fissel has made things easier for CMU's two other top hitters - juniors Whitney Evers and Sarah Warner. Evers is averaging 3.22 kills per game, while Warner has been consistent with 2.92 kills per game.
"It's nice having great hitters in the front row because if somebody else draws a double block, I get a single block," Warner said.
Fissel has developed great chemistry with setter Courtney Kersten, who is averaging 11.71 assists per game; good for third in the MAC.
Much of Fissel's success has been a result of the time she put in during the summer.
"I worked really hard in the offseason," Fissel said. "It's nice to see it pay off."
Olson said he knows Fissel is the team's battery and feels she can keep up her stellar play.
"She makes us go and she knows that," Olson said.
Fissel and the Chippewas attempt to keep their three-game winning streak alive this weekend when they play Friday at Ball State and Saturday at Toledo.
sports@cm-life.com
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