CARTERVILLE — Ahnie Hoff is going to become a chemical engineer.

In the meanwhile, the John A. Logan College student-athlete has been named volleyball's MVP of the NJCAA's Division 1 Region 24.

"It's an incredible accomplishment," said head volleyball coach Bill Burnside. "But she is an incredible athlete and student."

Hoff is a 5'9" sophomore outside hitter for John A. Logan College. Her success on the court is only matched by her success in the classroom. She has consistently earned a spot on the President's and Vice President's list each semester while studying to earn a degree in science.

"She's taking some of the hardest classes offered at the College," Burnside said. "She continues to earn a near-perfect grade point average."

Hoff said she plans to become an organic chemist and work in a lab. Until then, however, she is pleased to accept the Region 24 MVP award and hopes to continue playing volleyball at a four-year university.

"Accepting this award feels pretty darn good," Hoff said after being recognized as Region 24 MVP. She was also recognized as MVP of the Great Rivers Athletic Conference (GRAC). "I hope now to continue to play volleyball and earn an engineering degree."

Logan's volleyball team finished undefeated in conference play. The team's overall record was 19-11 and with a strong finish ended just one win away from playing in the national tournament after winning both the conference title and the region title.

"Our season started out a little rocky, but Coach Burnside brought us along and everything came together," Hoff said.

Burnside said Hoff and her teammates proved that they "love to compete.

"This team was made up of an exceptional group of sophomores who set a great example on and off the court," Burnside said. "They led our team through the challenges and always kept a positive attitude."

Other All-Conference players from Logan included Brooke Hogard, Carolyn Phoenix, and Shelbey Saye. Other All-Region players included Hogard and Emily Burkitt.