Jan. 11, 2006

SEATTLE- Washington All-American Courtney Thompson has been selected as the 2005 CVU.com (Collegiate Volleyball Update) National Setter of the Year.

A junior from Kent, Wash., Thompson not only finished as the top setter in the country in assists per game with 14.89, but she guided the Husky offense to the National Championship. Under Thompson's on-court direction, Washington finished first in the nation in team hitting percentage (.338) and second in total kills per game (17.52).

"I'm really honored to receive this award," said Thompson. "When setters get recognition it's a reflection of the team. We had a great season this year and I was lucky to play along side some of the best players in the country. My position naturally makes me the middle man so I'm only as good as my teammates. The team worked hard every day this season and this award is a result of that."

Across other statistical categories, Thompson averaged 2.46 digs per game, as well as chipping in 26 kills, 28 service aces and 64 blocks on the season.

Thompson helped lead Washington to a 32-1 record, a Pac-10 title and it's first-ever National Championship, sweeping Nebraska in the title-match.

Also included in CVU's top setters for 2005 are two who made the list last season in Missouri's Lindsey Hunter and Penn State's Sam Tortorello (both seniors). Making their first appearances are Santa Clara's Crystal Matich and Savanah Parra of Ohio.