The recipient of the 2023 MPSF Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year award has been announced

In the exciting world of collegiate men’s volleyball, the MPSF (Mountain Pacific Sports Federation) never fails to deliver thrilling performances and remarkable players. This year, the competition reached new heights, showcasing incredible talents from various universities. Among them, Jaylen Jasper, a Pepperdine graduate student from Annapolis, MD, has emerged as the MPSF Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year, earning a well-deserved title for his outstanding performance on the court. 

In the words of Jaylen Jasper himself: 

“Success in volleyball is not just about individual achievements; it’s about how well you can bring out the best in your team and contribute to their success.“

Let’s delve deeper into the achievements that led to this prestigious accolade.

Jaylen Jasper: Dominating the Court

Jaylen Jasper, known for his prowess as an opposite hitter, has left an indelible mark on the MPSF season this year. His explosive playing style has made him a force to be reckoned with on the court. One of the most remarkable aspects of his game is his ability to secure kills with unmatched precision, leading the MPSF with an impressive average of 5.02 kills per set. This outstanding feat places him far ahead of the competition, with the next highest averaging at 3.99 kills per set.

• National Recognition

Jasper’s exceptional performance has garnered attention beyond the MPSF. His remarkable statistics place him second in the nation for kills per set, an achievement that speaks volumes about his talent and dedication to the game. Additionally, he has also secured the No. 2 spot in the NCAA rankings for points per set, averaging an impressive 5.51 points.

• Weekly Awards and Unforgettable Matches

Throughout the season, Jaylen Jasper has consistently demonstrated his skills, leading to well-deserved recognition. He clinched four MPSF weekly awards, a testament to his remarkable consistency and impact on Pepperdine’s performance.

One memorable match that showcased Jasper’s brilliance was against No. 5 Grand Canyon, where he displayed a breathtaking performance, securing 53 kills on an astounding .536 hitting percentage. Such moments have set Jasper apart and cemented his position as the 2023 MPSF Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year.

• Record-Breaking Moments

Jaylen Jasper’s journey to the top was marked by several record-breaking achievements. On March 24, he tied the Pepperdine rally-era record with an astonishing 37 kills in a single match. This remarkable feat is the most by any MPSF player since 2014. Jasper’s exceptional abilities were further evident on February 17, when he hit an MPSF season-best .783 with 20 kills in a crucial victory against No. 9 Stanford.

• Consistency and Performance

Jaylen Jasper’s performance has been nothing short of exceptional throughout the season. In 27 out of 28 regular-season matches, he achieved double-digit kills, a testament to his consistency and reliability on the court. Impressively, he recorded 12 matches with 20 or more kills, further solidifying his position as one of the most dominant players in the MPSF. Among the non-middle players in the MPSF, Jasper boasts the best hitting clip of .371, showcasing his all-around skills as an opposite hitter.

• Remarkable Team Impact

What sets Jaylen Jasper’s award apart is the fact that Pepperdine finished lower than third in the final standings, making it the first time in the 31-year history of MPSF Men’s Volleyball that a player of the year came from a team outside the top three positions. This achievement highlights Jasper’s exceptional impact on the Pepperdine team and his ability to lead them to success despite the challenging circumstances.

• Pepperdine’s Legacy of Excellence

With this victory, Jaylen Jasper becomes the ninth player from Pepperdine to receive the MPSF Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year award, joining an esteemed list of previous winners. The other notable Pepperdine recipients include David Wieczorek (2018-19), Paul Carroll (2009), Jonathan Winder (2007), Sean Rooney (2005), Brad Keenan (2002), and George Roumain (1998-1999). This legacy of excellence speaks to the university’s commitment to nurturing outstanding talent and producing top-notch players.

Andrew Rowan: MPSF Men’s Volleyball Freshman of the Year

While Jaylen Jasper shone as the MPSF Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year, another young talent emerged to claim the MPSF Men’s Volleyball Freshman of the Year award. This year, the honor goes to UCLA’s Andrew Rowan, a remarkable freshman setter from Trabuco Canyon, CA.

• Contributing to UCLA’s Success

Andrew Rowan’s exceptional skills and dedication to the sport have significantly contributed to UCLA’s stellar performance this season. The Bruins enjoyed an unbeaten MPSF season for the first time since 1995, securing a total of 27 wins, a remarkable achievement for the team. Rowan played a pivotal role in elevating UCLA’s offense to the top rank in the NCAA’s regular season, with an impressive .379 team hitting percentage.

• Setting Records and Shining Bright

As a freshman, Rowan managed to make an indelible mark on the court with his remarkable skills. He leads the MPSF with a total of 44 service aces, including a season-high of six aces in just his second collegiate match. Such achievements at such an early stage in his collegiate career showcase the immense potential and talent Andrew Rowan possesses.

• Defensive Prowess and Recognition

Rowan’s impact was not only limited to setting up the offense; he also showcased his defensive prowess during the season. His outstanding performance led to him being named the MPSF Defensive Player of the Week on February 13. In a remarkable display of skill, he accumulated five block solos and seven blocks in total during a pair of wins over No. 2 Long Beach State. Additionally, Rowan played a crucial role in helping the team achieve a phenomenal .551 hitting clip in the first match of that series, even against one of the top defensive teams in the nation.

• UCLA’s Legacy of Freshman Success

As the fourth UCLA freshman to win the MPSF Freshman of the Year award, Andrew Rowan follows in the footsteps of previous remarkable talents. The list includes Guy Genis (2022), JT Hatch (2015), and Brandon Taliaferro (1997). Rowan’s achievement highlights the university’s commitment to nurturing and recognizing outstanding young talent in the world of men’s volleyball.

The Best of the MPSF: All-Conference First Team

The MPSF All-Conference First Team comprises the most outstanding performers of the season, representing the cream of the crop in collegiate men’s volleyball. These players have consistently demonstrated exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to their respective teams, elevating the level of competition and providing fans with thrilling matches. Let’s take a closer look at the talented athletes who made it to the All-Conference First Team:

Achievements of the First Team Players

• Jaylen Jasper: We have already highlighted Jaylen Jasper’s exceptional achievements, which earned him the prestigious title of the MPSF Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year. His dominance on the court and remarkable statistics have placed him among the top players in the nation.
• Merrick McHenry: As a redshirt junior middle blocker for UCLA, Merrick McHenry has been a force in the front row. His blocking abilities, combined with strong offensive skills, have made him a valuable asset to the Bruins’ lineup. His presence in the All-Conference First Team showcases his consistent performance throughout the season.
• Andrew Rowan: Andrew Rowan’s inclusion in the All-Conference First Team is well-deserved, considering his remarkable performance as a freshman setter for UCLA. His ability to set up the offense with precision and his defensive prowess have played a crucial role in the team’s success.
• Alex Knight: As a senior outside hitter, Alex Knight has been a key offensive weapon for UCLA. His powerful hits and strategic plays have consistently put the Bruins in advantageous positions during matches, making him an integral part of the team’s success.
• Ethan Champlin: Another talented outside hitter from UCLA, Ethan Champlin, has displayed exceptional skills on the court. His powerful attacks and solid defensive play have made him a standout player for the Bruins.
• Miks Ramanis: Representing BYU, Miks Ramanis has proven to be a versatile and effective outside hitter. His ability to score points from various positions on the court has made him a valuable asset for the BYU team.
• Ido David: UCLA’s Ido David has been a reliable opposite hitter, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive power. His ability to finish plays with precision and consistency has earned him a spot on the All-Conference First Team.

The All-Conference First Team comprises players who have demonstrated remarkable skills and made significant contributions to their teams’ success. Their collective presence has elevated the level of competition within the MPSF and has been a treat for volleyball enthusiasts.

The Best of the MPSF: All-Conference Second Team

The MPSF All-Conference Second Team comprises a talented group of players who have consistently delivered strong performances throughout the season. These players, though not part of the first team, have played crucial roles in their respective teams’ success and deserve recognition for their exceptional skills and contributions. Let’s take a closer look at the athletes who have earned a place on the All-Conference Second Team:

Achievements of the Second Team Players

• Christian Janke: As a senior outside hitter for Grand Canyon, Christian Janke has been a dominant force on the offensive end. His powerful attacks and strategic plays have been key to the team’s success.
• Dillon Klein: As a freshman outside hitter for USC, Dillon Klein has shown great promise and potential. His inclusion in the All-Conference Second Team speaks to his impactful performances during his debut season.
• Bryce Dvorak: Pepperdine’s junior setter, Bryce Dvorak, has been instrumental in setting up the team’s offense. His precise and strategic setting has contributed to Pepperdine’s success.
• Kevin Lamp: Representing Stanford, senior outside hitter Kevin Lamp has been a reliable offensive weapon for the team. His powerful hits and offensive prowess have been crucial in leading Stanford to victories.
• Justin Lui: As Stanford’s senior libero, Justin Lui’s defensive skills and leadership have played a vital role in the team’s performance. His exceptional defensive efforts have earned him a spot on the All-Conference Second Team.
• Rico Wardlow: Grand Canyon’s junior middle blocker, Rico Wardlow, has been a formidable presence at the net. His blocking skills and ability to disrupt opponents’ attacks have been essential to the team’s success.
• Uriel Batista: Concordia’s senior opposite, Uriel Batista, has been a key offensive player for the team. His ability to score points and contribute to the team’s success earned him a spot on the All-Conference Second Team.

Honorable Mentions: Players of Merit

In addition to the All-Conference First and Second Teams, several other players have displayed commendable skills and performances throughout the season. These student-athletes, though not part of the first and second teams, deserve recognition for their remarkable contributions to their respective teams. Let’s take a look at the players who have earned honorable mentions:

• Akin Akinwumi: A senior middle blocker from Pepperdine, Akin Akinwumi, has been a reliable presence at the net. His blocking abilities and consistent performances have earned him an honorable mention.
• Nic Slight: Representing Grand Canyon, redshirt sophomore setter Nic Slight has played a crucial role in setting up the team’s offense. His precise setting has contributed to Grand Canyon’s success.
• Gavin Julien: BYU’s junior middle blocker, Gavin Julien, has been a key player in the team’s success. His blocking and offensive skills have earned him an honorable mention.
• Guy Genis: UCLA’s redshirt sophomore middle blocker, Guy Genis, has shown great promise and potential. His contributions to the team’s success have earned him an honorable mention.
• Nathaniel Gates: As a senior middle blocker for Stanford, Nathaniel Gates has been a solid presence at the net. His blocking skills have earned him an honorable mention.
• Will Rottman: Stanford’s senior outside hitter, Will Rottman, has been a valuable offensive asset for the team. His powerful hits and offensive prowess have earned him an honorable mention.
• Jackson Hickman: Grand Canyon’s redshirt junior outside hitter, Jackson Hickman, has played an important role in the team’s performance. His offensive abilities have earned him an honorable mention.

MPSF All-Freshman Team: Rising Stars

The MPSF All-Freshman Team consists of exceptional young talents who have made impressive contributions to their teams. These rising stars have showcased their potential and promise for a bright future in collegiate men’s volleyball. Let’s take a closer look at the talented athletes who made it to the All-Freshman Team:

Summary

The MPSF Men’s Volleyball Awards for the year 2023 have recognized exceptional talents and remarkable performances in the world of collegiate volleyball. Jaylen Jasper’s outstanding skills and domination on the court earned him the prestigious title of MPSF Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year, while Andrew Rowan’s remarkable performance as a freshman setter secured him the MPSF Men’s Volleyball Freshman of the Year award. Additionally, the All-Conference First and Second Teams, as well as the honorable mentions and All-Freshman Team, showcased the depth of talent and the fierce competition within the MPSF. 

As the volleyball season comes to an end, it’s a perfect reminder of the dedication and hard work that goes into achieving such prestigious awards. In the words of Andrew Rowan, the MPSF Men’s Volleyball Freshman of the Year: 

“Being part of this incredible team and earning this recognition is a dream come true. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to UCLA’s success and can’t wait to see what the future holds for our team.” 

Indeed, these players’ achievements will serve as inspiration for aspiring athletes and continue to elevate the level of play in collegiate men’s volleyball.