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February 1, 2012
HCC is pleased to announce that All-state outside hitter Rebecca Schnabel has signed to play with St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas. After visiting, Becca felt like it was the perfect fit. Go get 'em, Becca!
February 1, 2012
HCC is pleased to announce the commitment of Andrea Tauai. Andrea is a native of New Zealand and a graduate of Tauranga Girls' College HS. She is an OH with extensive junior national and beach experience. "We spent some time getting to know Andrea to see if HCC was the right fit. I have no doubt it is," explained Larkin. "Andrea is a dynamic OH who will do anything in her pursuit of excellence in volleyball. She'll fit it nicely with all of our other gym rats."
January 25, 2012
All-American setter Rachel Powell verbally commits to McNeese State University in Louisiana and Head Coach Terry Gamble. Rachel is excited about the challenge of playing D-I volleyball. Congrats, Rachel. We are proud of you!
January 20, 2012
The HCC Volleyball Team mentored students from Academy Prep Center of Tampa Bay in Ybor City. All had a great time learning some skills and sharing some laughs.
Ebony Moore from Bayshore High School in Bradenton is the latest recruit to commit to the Lady Hawks. Ebony is a strong and athletic OH who will benefit greatly from the intense training environment at HCC. "Ebony is a star waiting to emerge. If she is as mature as she has been in the recruiting process, she will develop quickly," explained Larkin. "We excited to have her join the HCC family."
December 27, 2011
Amani West from Tampa Bay Tech commits to the Lady Hawks. Amani played for Coach Colley at Tech and plays for the Tampa Bay Raptors. "Amani brings athleticism to our outside hitter core. She impressed us with her determination and spirit throughout this process," explained Larkin.
December 21, 2011
HCC is pleased to announce the signing of Becca Conrad. Becca is a versatile outside hitter who comes to us from Ohio. Volleyball is a family tradition for the Conrads, so HCC is pleased to get a player of such experience. "Becca will have the ability to play many roles throughout the season. We like versatility," explained Larkin.
HCC signed Nicole Gonzalez, a dynamic and spirited OH from Toa Baja, Puerto Rico. Nicole is the second Gonzalez to play for the Hawks as older sister Madi played in 2006. "Nicole has a fearless attitude, which will serve her well at HCC," remarked Larkin. "She will fit in nicely with our program's culture."
The Lady Hawks landed middle blocker Shelby Walker from Lakewood Ranch HS where she played for Perry Hankins. She is currently playing at MAV for Nancy Cothron. "Shelby is a physical middle who continues to grow every day," said Larkin. "It will be exciting to watch her develop at HCC; she has a high ceiling."
December 16, 2011
Congratulations to the Lady Hawks Volleyball team for posting a team GPA over 3.0! The team was led by the following student athletes: Becca, Hillary, Kristin, Shelby, Jenna, and Dani. Way to go, guys!
December 1, 2011
Rachel Powell is named 2nd Team All-American and upholds HCC's tradition of fielding excellent setters. The whole college is very proud of her. "She was a pleasure to work with," explained Larkin. "She worked her butt off and earned this honor." Rachel and her sophomore teammates are currently busy communicating with 4-yr colleges and universities concerning their future plans.
November 6, 2011
HCC's season comes to an end in the semi-finals at the State Tournament. "No one outside of our locker room expected us to play at this level up here," stated Larkin. "I couldn't be prouder of our whole group. We put ourselves in a position to win and just missed shocking the state." Shelby Smith (with the help of a palm frond necktie, walking sticking, and a baby pine cone) continued to play loose and confident. Rachel Powell and Rebecca Schnabel were named to the All-State Tournament Team. "Our players played to the final whistle. That says all you need to know about them," continued Larkin.
The Lady Hawks volleyball family wants to thank all of our family support, our traveling fans, our fans back home, Coach Tony, Coach Monica, and our school's administrative support. We couldn't do it without you all!
November 5, 2011
Shhhh... HCC has been playing possum in its way into the state tournament, but there's no suprising anyone anymore. HCC defeated the conference champion Polk Eagles in a 5-set war to cross into the semi-finals. The Lady Hawks jumped out to a 2-set lead, but the tough and talented Polk squad fought its way back into the match pushing it to set 5. "They have a great defensive team and an OH from the Dominican Republic who plays at a different level. Our team held to the game plan, got each others' backs, and focused on the present. That's how we won game 5," explained Larkin. HCC faces the 7pm winner on Sunday at 10am. If they defeat one more opponent, the Lady Hawks will be boarding a plane for Missouri and the NJCAA National Championships. HCC was led by Rachel Powell's 53 assists, Rebecca Schnabel's 19 kills, and Shelby Smith's 12 kills and strong defensive play. "Any one of the teams at this state tournament would win matches at the national tournament. We took two tough steps toward our goal, and we have one more challenge to face," said Larkin.
November 4, 2011
Rachel Powell was named Suncoast Conference Player of the Year! Rachel Powell and Rebecca Schnabel were also named All-State! Other award winners include 1st Team All-Conference-- Rachel and Rebecca and 2nd Team All-conference-- Zoe Sostre, Nicole Higgins, Gabi Berrios, and Francesca Indoni. Congrats Lady Hawks. It takes a team to earn individual awards. Now let's keep winning!
November 4, 2011
The Lady Hawks win the all important first match at the FCCAA Tournament. It was a battle between two similar teams and offenses. In the end, HCC was able to defeat Pensacola State in 4 sets. HCC was led by Rachel Powell's 44 assists, Becca Schnabel's 19 kills, 2.5 blocks, and 3 aces, and Francesca Indoni's 7 kills and 4 blocks. "With the improved level of play in the state, every match is a battle this year. We are happy to win and advance past an excellent team. Our sights are set on Polk now. We know each other well, and our players are excited to face the challenge," explained Larkin.
HCC plays Polk State at noon Saturday. Follow along at www.psblive.com.
October 28, 2011
The Lady Hawks held strong to honor the sophomores. The team was also very happy to welcome back Captain Hillary Byrd, who is recovering from surgery. HCC faced a tough and relaxed opponent in LSCC on Thursday night but prevailed in set 5 15-9. HCC was led by Becca Schnabel's 22 kills, Nicole Higgins 13 kills, and Shelby Smith's 10 kills. Dani Weishaar chipped in 31 digs and Rachel Powell added 6 kills and 59 assists.
Becca kicked off the evening with a wonderful rendition of the National Anthem. Henry the Hawk showed up; the sophomores were allowed to "decorate" Coach Larkin's dress shirt for the match, and the freshmen decorated the gymnasium. It was a wonderful celebration for a memorable class. "It's always tough to coach on sophomore night because of the emotion in the building. The sophomores took care of business when they needed to tonight," remarked Larkin.
The Lady Hawks next play Friday at home at 2pm.
October 27, 2011
The Lady Hawks split matches in a tri-match at Indian River State College on Oct. 21st. In the first match HCC swept IRSC 3-0. "Both teams we faced will be at states, so today was a good test for us," explained Larkin. Rachel Powell led a balanced attack distributing the ball to all positions leading to 15 kills from the MBs and Opp. "I'm happy with the way Rachel has worked to involve all players in the offense," continued Larkin. In the second match, HCC played FSCJax close losing in 4 sets. "The first time we saw Jacksonville, we kind of folded," said Larkin. "We took a step in the right direction today." HCC is currently 17-13.
Join us for SOPHOMORE NIGHT Thursday, Oct. 27th at 7pm. HCC hosts LSCC. On Friday, The Lady Hawks welcome multiple teams to Tampa for the HCC Halloween Invitational. Matches begin at 11am on Friday and at 10am on Saturday.
October 20, 2011
The Lady Hawks stun PHCC in New Port Richey after dropping the first two sets. Associate Head Coach Monica Medvid and Assistant Coach Tony Cothron continued their winning streak as once a year they lead the Hawks into battle and leave the gray-haired one home. HCC's comeback was led by Zoe's 16 kills and Becca's 25 kills. "We are all super proud of the girls. Last year we had success versus Pasco, and they won the D2 championship. This year they are just as tough, so this win should give our team the confidence it needs," explained Larkin. Rachel Powell also played well near her home town as usual, posting over 50 assists.
HCC travels to Indian River State on Saturday to play two teams who earned trips to the FCCAA tournament. Match times are 11 and 1pm.
October 17, 2011
HCC wins its final conference match 3-0 at SCF Manatee to finish 5-3. The Lady Hawks have earned a 6th straight trip to the FCCAA State Tournament. MBs Hillary Byrd, Zoe Sostre, Crissi Dejiulio, and Francesca Indoni all hit over .300. "We played really well tonight. It was their sophomore night, and it is always a challenge to win on an opponent's sophomore night," explained Coach Larkin.
The Lady Hawks then traveled to Jacksonville to play in the FSCJ Tournament of Champions. HCC started by sweeping Palm Beach but fell flat thereafter losing to FSCJ and MDC. "We found a way to blow a huge lead in set 1 versus Jacksonville. After that it got a little ugly. Volleyball is as much about momentum and self-esteem. We were playing our opponent and ourselves. We'll grow from it," said Larkin. HCC finished the tournament by playing a tough 5-setter against PJC, our 1st round opponent at the state tournament.
Congratulations to Rebecca Schnabel for being named to the All-tournament team.
HCC next plays at PHCC Thursday night at 7pm.
October 12, 2011
The Lady Hawks hosted a large crowd for the SPC conference match Tuesday night. Although HCC lost, we all won as our fundraiser to support breast cancer research and awareness was a huge success. The crowd as well as players and staff were decked out in pink. The team raised over $350 on the night, and we would like to sincerely thank each and every donor who supported our efforts. The Lady Hawks travel to SCF Manatee on Thursday night.
October 11, 2011
The Lady Hawks took care of SFCC last Thursday in 3 sets to go to 4-2 in conference play. HCC is inching closer to earning its 7th consecutive trip to the State Tournament.
Over the weekend, HCC joined many of the state powers in a tournament at Manatee. HCC finished 2-2 to go to 13-8, 4-2. Setter Rachel Powell was named to the All-tournament team. Rachel posted 193 assists on the weekend. Other standouts include Becca Schnabel who posted 73 kills and Nicole Higgins and Jenna Kirkwood who both had over 20 kills. The middle blockers also combined for 50 kills and continue to become a bigger factor in matches. "Gabi took one on the chin this weekend-- literally," said Coach Larkin. "We had to send her to urgent care, but she was back for the next match. That's the kind of toughness we are striving for."
HCC hosts SPC Tuesday night in an important conference match. Come out and support our "Dig for the Cure Match" in support of breast cancer awareness and research.
October 5, 2011
HCC beats conference leader Polk State in 4 sets to improve to 10-6. After dropping the first set, the Lady Hawks rallied to win the next 3. Set 2 was especially exciting with the Hawks prevailing 34-32. "It was a high level match. Polk State is an excellent team, and tonight we rose to the occasion. Becca (22kills) and Nicole (18kills) were tough to stop," explained Larkin. "We're starting to look like HCC. I am proud of the girls tonight." The giant blue HCC mascot made a showing. Harry(?) the Hawk rallied the boisterous crowd who was decked out in white as part of the "white out the gym" event.
Faces in the Crowd: Tampa Tech's Head Coach Liz Colley and her volleyball players who are having an excellent high school season.
HCC plays at SFCC at 7pm on Thursday night.
On Tuesday night October 11th, HCC Volleyball will be collecting donations for Florida Suncoast of Susan G, Komen for the Cure. All spectators are encouraged to wear pink to support the fight against breast cancer. Students, faculty, and staff may also look for a volleyball player during the day in order to purchase a pink bracelet. Join us in this noble cause. See you Tuesday!
September 28, 2011
HCC move to 2-2 in conference play (9-6 overall) with 4-set win over SCF Tuesday night. "Becca got hot in set 4, hitting .700, which helped us close them out," commented Larkin. The Lady Hawks return to conference play next Tuesday at 7pm at home against conference leader Polk. Fans are encouraged to wear white shirts and help us "White out the Gym."
September 27, 2011
The Lady Hawks lend a hand. The HCC Volleyball team donated their time to help the St. Lawrence Celtics prepare for their upcoming matches. "It was so much fun working with the middle schoolers! It reminded me of when I was just starting out," remarked Captain Rachel Powell. All girls enjoyed the interaction and put in a good day's work. Good luck, Celtics! Thanks for hosting us.
September 24, 2011
HCC takes 2 matches at Lake Sumter. The Lady Hawks started the tri-match with a three game sweep of Indian River State College. Rachel Powell posted 36 assists and 7pts. In the second match, HCC beat host LSCC in 4. MB Francesca Indoni hit .410 and posted 8.5 pts. OH Becca Schnabel hit .340 on her way to 25 pts. "A number of players looked good today. It was nice to see them perform the way we know they can," commented Larkin. "Food tastes a little better after a couple of wins." HCC is 8-6.
September 24, 2011
The Lady Hawks drop a close one at SPC. After being down 0-2, HCC rallied back to tie it at 2 sets each. The Lady Hawks came up just short losing 13-15 in set 5. Dani Weishaar came off the bench to chip in 20 digs. HCC travel to LSCC for a tri-match on Saturday and resumes conference play on Tuesday at home at 7pm.
Faces in the crowd...
Thank you to the Binghams for cheering us on. It was their second visit!
September 21, 2011
HCC bounces back and sweeps SFCC. The Lady Hawks used a balanced attack and some timely blocking to secure the victory. "Rachel was pretty good tonight, and we showed a little more passion on defense," explained Larkin. "Every conference match is a challenge and we must be up for it." HCC faces SPC away on Thursday night.
Faces in the crowd...
Myeasha Williams ('09) stopped by practice Monday night...smiling as usual!
Hailey Plunkett ('05) attended tonight's match and enjoyed seeing the new Lady Hawks locker room.
Claudia Cabrera ('10) brought Tony Mountain Dew for his birthday. Happy 30th! jk
Hey!! Have you heard yet ?!! Home volleyball matches may be heard on Hawk Radio. Never miss a point again!
September 16, 2011
The Lady Hawks lose on the road to Polk State in 4. At 23-23 in game 4, HCC had a chance to make it interesting, but it was not meant to be. All players participated in various roles. The Lady Hawks continue conference play next Tuesday. "It's time to get back to work because we all need to be better from coaches down to players," commented Larkin. "We will work hard and be ready to fight next Tuesday. Our fans deserve our very best." HCC hosts SFCC next Tuesday at 7pm.
Guess who checked in...
Leah Buchanan is in town with UWF competing against St. Leo. Good luck!
Kimmy Clark from the 2006 Championship team texted this week and said she looks forward to seeing the new Hawks.
September 14, 2011
HCC misses an opportunity for momentum by losing in 5 to Pasco on their home court. "PHCC wanted it more than us. I'm not sure why, but you have to give credit where credit is due," admitted Larkin.
A huge thank you to Hawk Radio for doing its first ever volleyball broadcast!
Last night's crowd was also the biggest volleyball crowd in history. Thanks to our great fans!
September 9, 2011
HCC moves up to 15 in the NJCCA after winning its home invitational. "Starting the year at 22nd was largely due to the program's history and reputation. Our moving up this week is a reflection of the team's hard work," said Coach Larkin. HCC also has a number of players ranked in national statisical categories. Setter Rachel Powell ranks in the top 5 in assists/set and OH Becca Schnabel ranks in the top 5 in kills/set. OH Jenna Kirkwood ranks in the top 25 in kills/set and Libero Gabi Berrios ranks in the top 25 in digs/set. "We get better every day; that's all I can ask."
September 4, 2011
The Lady Hawks take the home HCC Invitational trophy after sweeping SPC.
The day started with a 4-set win over Webber's JV squad. HCC was led by Becca Schnabel's 18 kills and 13 digs and Jenna Kirkwood's 12 kills. HCC had 11 blocks in the match.
The win set up a meeting with SPC with the championship on the line. HCC came out strong winning the first two sets 25-15, 25-15. The team then rallied and came from behind, sealing the victory with a timely swing by Kirkwood to win set 3 26-24. The Hawks got 11 kills by Kirkwood and Schnabel and another 9.5 pts from Hillary Byrd. The team posted 13 total blocks.
HCC next faces PHCC 9/13 at home at 7pm.
Faces in the crowd: 2009 alumni Erica Medvid and Katlyn Flick
Did you know: 2004 Alumnus Alina Paulsen (Pasciuta) and her husband are moving to Mississippi to open their Chick-fil-A, and they will also welcome a new baby!
2005 alumnus Brittany Hipps will get married next week!
Good luck to all!
September 3, 2011
HCC opened the weekend with a straight set victory over a spirited SFCC squad. "Early in the year, we all ride a roller coaster. Today was no different; we saw flashes of brilliance and flashes of confusion," explained Larkin. The Lady Hawks were led by Becca Schnabel's 15.5 pts and Captain Hillary Byrd's 9 pts. The team had a .440 hitting percentage.
In the second match, HCC faced #25 SCF. In a back and forth affair, the Lady Hawks prevailed in 4 sets. Rachel Powell dished out 48 assists and Becca posted 24 kills. HCC had two others with double digit kills, Jenna Kirkwood with 13 and Nicole Higgins with 10.
HCC improves to 3-3.
August 31, 2011
The Lady Hawks finished its scrimmage season with a home match vs. St. Leo. "It was an excellent test against a well-coached team," explained Larkin. "We played with passion and determination. I was very pleased with the product last night." OH Becca Schnabel Had 19 kills and Libero Gabi Berrios had 38 digs. HCC hosts an invitational starting this Friday at 11:30am.
August 28, 2011
The Lady Hawks return from Iowa Western with a great deal of experience. HCC started the tournament playing #1 WNCC tough but falling in 4 close sets. HCC was the only team to take a set off the Cougars. The Lady Hawks followed it up with an impressive sweep of power Missouri St. West Plains. "WNCC was very polished for this stage in the season and Missouri St. was very athletic, so I was very pleased with our first day," explained Coach Larkin. On day 1, HCC was led by setter Rachel Powell and OH Becca Schnabel. On day 2, HCC faced #15 Jefferson and #4 IWCC but came out flat losing both. "We return only one impact player from 2010, so it will take a little time for players to grow into their roles," remarked Larkin. "This weekend was both humbling and inspiring." OH Shelby Smith stood out on Day 2 for her high energy and intensity. HCC is currently ranked 22nd and is 1-3.
August 24, 2011
HCC scrimmaged UT last night as its last preparation for the IWCC Invitational. "We are grateful that UT invited us. The scrimmages we have played were extremely challenging and should prepare us for anything we might see in Iowa," remarked Larkin. The Lady Hawks played some good games taking one and staying close in a couple of others. "It's for real now. We just have to step off that plane confident in the work we have done and confident of the players and team that we have become."
August 22, 2011
HCC was grateful to host Florida Southern last night. "Southern is poised to have a great year. With so many returning seniors, Coach Jill will have them at the top of the DII poll," said Larkin. HCC played a little bit of a roller coaster match, but the Lady Hawks played courageous defense on their way to winning a couple of games. "It was another great learning experience for our new starters and our incoming freshmen."
August 19, 2011
The Lady Hawks scrimmaged CCC last night. Coach Larkin remarked, "We're very thankful to have hosted CCC as they are always disciplined and determined." Under casual conditions, HCC found some rhythm on offense and played very scrappy defense, winning the first four games. "I was very happy with our communication and the way Rachel [Powell] spread the ball around," said Larkin. The Lady Hawks also posted 10 blocks and 16 aces. "We all just want to play someone other than ourselves at this point in the season. We learned a lot."
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