HANCEVILLE, Ala. – Wallace State volleyball sophomore setter Savannah Rutledge was named a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division I 2nd-team All-American on Wednesday, marking the second consecutive season she’s been named to the second team.
Rutledge, an Albertville native, is the program’s all-time leader in assists with 2,792. She established the single-season assists mark this season with 1,795, also leading the nation in that category in convincing fashion. She added 371 digs for the Lions.
Rutledge helped propel Wallace State to a 43-10 record and to a 12th Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC) tournament championship in 13 seasons. The Lions, coached by Randy Daniel, also earned their 14th straight ACCC regular-season title and made a 20th appearance at nationals.
“We’re very proud of Savannah and all that she has accomplished. Few people realize she played every set of every match. That’s 53 matches, and Savannah never once came out. She’s dedicated to the game and her craft and never complains,” said Wallace State coach Randy Daniel, who has compiled a 552-113 record in 15 seasons. “Savannah is a wonderful person and setter and deserves all of the recognition she receives. It will be a challenge to fill her shoes.”
Rutledge becomes the second player in Wallace State volleyball history to be named an NJCAA All-American in consecutive seasons. Erica Baker was an honorable mention selection during both the 2011 and 2012 seasons.
Eleven Wallace State volleyball players have earned NJCAA All-American honors under Daniel’s guidance.
In addition to the national recognition, Rutledge was the 2021 ACCC Player of the Year and was an All-Tournament selection in both the ACCC and Gulf Atlantic District Tournaments. She had committed to continue her volleyball career at UAH.
As a freshman, Rutledge was an ACCC 1st-team and All-Tournament selection.
View the entire NJCAA All-American list here | https://www.njcaa.org/sports/wvball/2021-22/div1/all-americans/index
For more information about Wallace State athletics, visit www.athletics.wallacestate.edu or the athletics Facebook page at www.wallacestate.edu/athleticsfb.
