DURHAM, N.C. – Sophomore middle hitter/blocker Allyson Rouse of North Carolina Central has been named MEAC Volleyball Defensive Player of the Week on Monday after the season's opening weekend. This is Rouse's first MEAC individual honor in her career.

Rouse amassed 17 blocks and 23 kills in leading the Eagles to a 2-1 record in Huntsville, Ala., at the Betty K. Austin Invitational, which pitted the MEAC teams versus the SWAC. The 2-1 mark ties the 2020 NCCU team for the best three-match start in the program's Division I history.

A Fayetteville, N.C., native, Rouse totaled eight blocks and three aces, both career highs, in a four-set win over Florida A&M, which is picked to win its third straight SWAC title. She also tallied six blocks in a five-set loss to Alabama A&M. Her season-high 10 kills on .571 percent hitting help the Eagles sweep Arkansas-Pine Bluff in three sets.

A MEAC All-Rookie Team pick a year ago, Rouse is ranked in two MEAC statistical categories after the first weekend of volleyball play. She is third in hitting percentage (.378) and fourth in blocks per set (1.42). Her 17 blocks are tied for the league lead.

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