The first set of 2026 Gulf South Conference Volleyball Weekly Awards presented by Athletic Solutions were announced following performances from Aug. 27-30.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Mallory Hulsey, OH, So., Montevallo
- Helped the Falcons go 3-1 at the McKendree Invitational in the first weekend of the season.
- Recorded 63 total kills, 4.50 per set, with a .317 hitting percentage and averaged 4.64 points per set.
- Hit .515 with 19 kills in the season opener versus Ouachita Baptist.
- Finished the weekend swinging .409 in a five-set win against Maryville (Mo.) with 21 kills.
Other nominees: Cooper Garrett, UAH; Chelsea Daffin, AUM; Sophia Lippert, Lee; Brynne Krangnes, Trevecca; Carleigh Charles, Union; Jazlyn Snow, West Alabama
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Ava Wind, DS/L, Jr., Montevallo
- Helped Montevallo go 3-1 at the McKendree Invitational on the opening weekend of the season.
- Finished with 5.29 digs per set, totaling 74 digs over four matches.
- Tallied a season-high 23 digs in a five-set victory over Maryville (Mo.).
Other nominees: Mary Grace Bundrant, UAH; Amiliaa DeLeon, AUM; Sophia Nowacki, Christian Brothers; Esthefany Rabit, Lee; Jordan Hunt, Trevecca; Carly Edwards, Union; Bailey Keef, West Alabama
FRESHMAN OF THE WEEK
Rachele Zanini, S, West Alabama
- Helped the Tigers go 3-1 at the Bobcat Classic in the opening weekend of the year.
- Dished out 125 total assists, averaging 7.81 per set.
- She also totaled 10 kills, nine service aces, 49 digs and two block assists while playing 16 sets.
- Recorded 30 or assists twice, including a season-high 38 helpers in a five-set win over Southern Wesleyan.
Other nominees: Mary George Vandergriff, UAH; Mya Lacy, AUM; Avery Sample, Lee; Anna Vandell, Montevallo; Brianna Bowman, Trevecca; Julia Stuible, Union
2026 GSC Volleyball Weekly Award Winners
Offensive Player of the Week
Week 1 (Sep. 1): Mallory Hulsey, Montevallo
Defensive Player of the Week
Week 1 (Sep. 1): Ava Wind, Montevallo
Freshman Player of the Week
Week 1 (Sep. 1): Rachele Zanini, West Alabama