Florida International University volleyball player Lina Bernier was named the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Week following her performances that led to victories for the Panthers. Bernier collected 39 digs in the wins over UAB and Marshall that helped FIU start conference play 2-0. For the season, Bernier has tallied 16 or more digs in 12 of the Panthers' 14 matches. Bernier is currently third in the conference in digs,...

  Florida International University freshman setter Abbie Hughes was named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association fifth annual High School Beach All-American team. Hughes, who leads FIU with 229 assists on the season, was honored on the second team. Hughes played for Ohio Valley Beach Volleyball Academy/Next Level during her prep career in Mason, Ohio. At the Ohio Valley Beach Volleyball Academy, Hughes won back-to-back Beach...

  Florida International University junior wide receiver Maurice Alexander was named to the Paul Hornung Award Weekly Honor Roll following his stellar all-around performance in the Panthers’ 63-24 victory over UMass. Alexander returned a punt 60 yards for a touchdown, and he also caught a touchdown pass, becoming the first Panther ever to record a punt return and touchdown reception in the same game. He finished the game with 190...

  Mater Academy senior volleyball player Lily Sierra recently committed to enroll at Florida International University and play for Panthers’ top-ranked team starting next year. Sierra made The Miami Herald All-Dade team during her sophomore and senior years after leading the Lions to two district championships and two appearances in the regionals. Sierra chose FIU over St. Thomas University, Barry University and other universities...

  Monsignor Edward Pace High senior fullback and linebacker Thomas Willis was named Riddell Sports Player of the Week last month for his hard work and outstanding performance this season. The 5-11, 217-pound player helped the Spartans to a 3-0 record before losing to American Heritage and University. Willis’ honor came two weeks before Joe Zaccheo announced he’s stepping down as Spartans head coach and athletic director at...