Nov. 21, 2009

HOUSTON, Texas - North Dakota defeated Utah Valley, 3-1, to win the 2009 Great West Conference Volleyball Tournament Saturday at Houston, Texas. The Fighting Sioux, who were also the regular season champions, won the match by scores of 25-21, 25-17, 23-25, 25-18.

GWC first team all-conference performer Devin Trefz and second-team honoree Annika Smed posted 14 kills apiece to lead the Sioux. GWC Setter of the Year Megan Langseth recorded 28 assists, while Lindsay Vortherms posted 15 digs to lead UND.

Utah Valley (22-10) was led by GWC Player of the Year Kayli Broadbent with 23 kills on the afternoon, while second team All-GWC awardees Chelsea Fa'alogo and Allyce Jones registered 35 assists and 26 digs, respectively.

Langseth was named the tournament's most valuable player at the conclusion of the championship. She was joined on the team by teammates Vortherms and Amanda Polzin. Also named All-Tournament were Broadbent, Jones, HBU's Courtney Whittleman and South Dakota's Jenna Hatfield.

Great West Conference Assistant Commissioner Mike Sharpe was on hand to present the team and individual awards.