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Stephanie Preach was named Gatorade's Arizona Player of the Year.

Stephanie Preach, a setter for the Xavier College Preparatory varsity volleyball team, was recently named as Gatorade’s Arizona Volleyball Player of the Year. The 5-foot-8 junior recorded 983 assists and 253 kills along with a .437 hitting percentage this season according to a Xavier press release. It was that performance that helped the team win its second consecutive state title in Class 5A Division I competition.

“Stephanie is probably the most complete player I’ve ever coached and I’ve coached a lot,” head coach Tim McHale said. “She’s played out of position and been dominant, and she’s dominated at her own position. She walked in the first day of her freshman year and she was the best player in the gym then, and she still is today.”  

Like many athletic awards, the presenters also examine the student’s academic records and extracurricular activities. On Preach, Gatorade found her 3.48 GPA and Key Club involvement very favorable. Preach has also volunteered at the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and Andre House in downtown Phoenix.  

To learn more about the award and the selection process, click here.