Teams:
Kentucky
Western Kentucky
Northwestern State (Louisiana)
North Texas
It was not a standout year for any team in the Kentucky region. Only two of the teams made an appearance at Nationals. While neither Kentucky nor Western Kentucky made it past the 2nd round in the NCDA’s final tournament, both teams proved that Kentucky has some quality dodgeball teams. Here are my awards for the Kentucky Region.
Best Team:
Kentucky
The Wildcats get the slight nod over WKU based on the head-to-head matchups that these two teams had this year. UK never lost to WKU in 2013-14, proving to once again be the premier team from this region.
Most Improved Team:
Western Kentucky
WKU certainly played well at Nationals this year. The Hilltoppers beat host school Ohio State in the first round, and earned a point against eventual Final Four team James Madison before losing that game. WKU surprised many teams with their organized play and timely catching as they made an impressive run at 2014 NCDA Nationals.
Most Valuable Player:
Felix Perrone (WKU)
The only player from this region to earn first team ALL-NCDA was WKU’s Felix Perrone. Competing in his final season, Felix led Western Kentucky all year long. Felix Perrone was one of the most skilled players in the NCDA this season. It will be near impossible for WKU to find someone to replace a player of his caliber.
Team to Watch Next Season:
North Texas
I have yet to see North Texas play a match, but I am giving them the title of “Team to Watch” because I expect a lot of improvement from this team. Remember, they are still fairly new to the NCDA.
It just won’t be the same without Felix flipping his hair back after each throw lol! That was the signature Perrone move! :-)
There’s always the alumni and staff games