Stella Marrero, a first-year libero from Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, playing for St. Mary’s College of Maryland (SMCM), was named the United East Conference Women’s Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, October 21. This marks the first career Defensive Player of the Week award for Marrero, reflecting her strong performance on the court.
The Seahawks recorded a 2-1 record last week, securing a pair of victories against Notre Dame of Maryland University and Cairn University while falling to Hood College in a close non-conference match. Marrero’s defensive efforts were a major factor in SMCM’s success, as she racked up 79 digs over the three matches, along with 11 assists, seven service aces, and a total of 8.0 points.
Marrero’s standout performance came during the Seahawks’ thrilling 3-2 road victory over Notre Dame of Maryland University on October 15. She notched a career-high 28 digs, adding three assists, one kill, and one ace to her performance. This impressive showing helped SMCM secure a key win in the road matchup.
In the October 17 non-conference contest against Hood College, despite the Seahawks’ narrow 3-2 loss, Marrero continued her excellent form by contributing 24 digs, five assists, and two aces. She wrapped up her week with another solid showing on October 19, recording 27 digs, four aces, and three assists in the Seahawks’ 3-1 win over Cairn University.
Through these performances, Marrero has established herself as a defensive force in the conference, currently ranking fifth in the United East for total digs with 317 and seventh for digs per set with an average of 4.17.
The Seahawks, now boasting a 14-10 overall record and a 6-1 mark in United East Conference play, are preparing for a critical matchup against Penn State Harrisburg. The two teams are set to face off in a conference showdown on Wednesday, October 23, at 7 p.m. in the Michael P. O’Brien Athletics & Recreation Center Arena. Penn State Harrisburg holds a 14-6 overall record and a 5-1 conference record, making the game a pivotal contest for both teams as they jostle for position in the standings.
The United East Conference has recognized several Defensive Players of the Week over the course of the 2024 season, with Marrero joining a list that includes athletes such as Ellise Everett of Cedar Crest, Julia Bobrowski from St. Mary’s College, and Fabiola Medina of Penn State Abington. Marrero’s award is a testament to her impact on the court as a first-year player.
As the Seahawks look ahead to their upcoming matches, Marrero will be a key figure in their defensive strategy, with her ability to rack up digs and provide steady support for the team’s backline. Her consistent performances have been a major asset for St. Mary’s College this season, and the recognition from the United East Conference highlights her rising star potential in collegiate volleyball.
