by Mike Finnerty (mike.finnerty@surewestsports.com)
This past November, the El Camino Eagles girl's volleyball team captured the Division II Sac-Joaquin Section Championship, their second title in three years, and just this month two of their star players were recognized nationally.
Freshman setter Devin Herenda (5'9") was one of 18 finalists for Prepvolleyball.com's "National Freshman of the Year", while teammate and senior outside hitter Natalie Riddering was named Prepvolleyball.com "Highest Honorable Mention, All American".
Herenda, who averaged 12.1 assists per game, was an impact player right away and key contributor to El Camino's section championship title. Other honors for Herenda this year included Capital Valley Conference All-League as well as Sacramento Bee All-Metro Honorable Mention.
"It's amazing how Devin could walk in as a freshman and make such an impact and handle the pressure in such big matches this year," said El Camino head coach Martin Soyama.
Taking home the honor of "National Freshman of the Year" was Beth Prince (6'3", outside hitter) of Avon, Indiana.
As for the 5'9" Riddering who will play at Cal next year, she dominated at the net this season, just as she had done the previous two seasons.
"Natalie has a high volleyball IQ of any player I've coach in my 25 year career," said Soyama. "She excels in every aspect of the game."
Riddering averaged 6.6 kills per game, was Capital Valley Conference MVP and First Team All-Metro.