Junior Lady Knights Volleyball star, Karson Brock, was recently recognized on the 2020 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Phenom / Under Armour watch list. Athletes that are named to the highly respectable list are also invited to attend the AVCA Phenom College Preparatory Program, which will be held in Omaha, Nebraska from December 17th – 19th this year.
“It’s not very common to get [an invite],” said Karson, “it’s elite.”
Though it may be uncommon to get invited to such an event, this invitation was no surprise to Lady Knights Head Volleyball Coach and Karson’s father, Walter Brock. This year, Karson was made team captain, not only for her athletic prowess, but also for her knowledge of the sport and her leadership abilities.
“She’s always trying to help kids learn to be better,” Coach Brock explained, “she’s like having another coach on the court; she really knows what she needs to do without me having to tell her.”
Due to the event taking place in Nebraska, Karson was a little shocked to find out they invited her to participate in the elite program.
“I did not expect to get [an invite].” She said. “It’s in Nebraska, so it’s hard to get [an invite] when you’re not living near there; it’s also exciting to know that they noticed me all the way over here.”
Getting an invitation to this event is a very high distinction in the world of high school volleyball, as it recognizes only the top athletes in the country for their outstanding abilities on the court. Coach Brock shared his thoughts on the significance of this event.
“It helps get her name out there. It helps showcase that she’s one of the top players in the country.” Coach Brock explained. “When you go to the camp [AVCA Phenom College Preparatory Program], they teach you things to get you prepared for the next level, it’s quite an honor.”
At the invitation-only event, athletes will have the opportunity to participate in informational sessions about life as a student-athlete, athlete-led panel discussions, individual player assessments and more! Athletes, like Karson, will also be given the opportunity to demonstrate their talents on the court in front of 200+ collegiate coaches.
Karson has a lot to look forward to this December, when the program is set to take place.
“I’m really excited! There’s a lot of college coaches there.” Karson added. “It’s just a good opportunity.”
Karson has been eyeing several Division 1 colleges, including Cincinnati and Ohio State.
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Even though the Lady Knights are still early in the season, Karson has already racked up some pretty impressive statistics with 108 kills, 74 digs, 42 aces and a 2.56 passer rating.
The team’s record, so far, is 8-3, with a couple of big matches coming up this Thursday night against Trailblazers and Daniel 1 Academy. View the remaining 2020 Knoxville Christian School HS Volleyball schedule here.
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For more information on the Phenom College Preparatory Program or to get updates on this year’s event, visit https://www.avca.org/events/phenom-program.html.
Students Return to Campus!
