April 22, 2006

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- - Senior Erin Borhart was honored as the Wake Forest volleyball team's Most Valuable Player, while redshirt freshman Natalie Mullikin was named the Rookie of the Year at the annual volleyball banquet.

The Demon Deacons honored the four seniors and their past accomplishments and handed out a total of seven awards, including MVP, Rookie of the Year, Most Improved, Unsung Hero, Deacon Award and Best Offensive and Defensive Players.

Borhart, a second team All-ACC selection, finished her career second on the program's career list for assists. She was named to the Black and Gold Challenge All Tournament team and led the Deacs with 10.72 assists per game. Borhart was also honored with the Deacon Award, which is presented to the athlete who has shown resolve through any situation on and off the court.

Mullikin, the Rookie of the Year, closed her first season with the Deacs as one of the team's best blockers, averaging 1.04 per game. She played in 98 matches and earned starts in 30 of them and earned the team's third best hitting percentage of . 255. Mullikin was also honored with the Dedication Award that is chosen by strength and conditioning coach Ethan Reeve. The awarded is given to the athlete that shows the most discipline and hard work in the areas of weight room.

The Most Improved Award was given to Lauren Peterson, who increased her hitting percentage from .157 in 2004 to .221 in 2005. She finished second on the team in kills per game with 3.08 improving from 2.14 in 2004.

Seniors AJ Nicholas and Klarysa Henry were also honored with the Unsung Hero Award and the Best Defensive Player Award, respectively. Senior Christy Williams was also selected as the team's Best Offensive Player.

The Demon Deacons closed their season with a 17-14 record overall and a 10-12 mark in the conference.