Hall of Fame
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Willis is one of the most decorated student-athletes in the history of South Atlantic Conference volleyball. She earned first team All-SAC and All-Region honors in each of her four seasons with the Bulldogs, leading Wingate to four regular season SAC titles and four SAC Tournament championships. Willis also helped lead the 'Dogs to the 2010 NCAA Region championship, the first in the history of Wingate or SAC volleyball.
"It is with profound gratitude that I accept this induction into Wingate's Hall of Fame," Willis says. "Reflecting on my time at Wingate, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of appreciation for the remarkable journey both on and off the court. Coach Collier's belief in my potential, recruiting me late in my senior year, led to an unexpected and immensely fulfilling college volleyball career. While the team victories and accolades brought lasting memories of joy, it is the character development and enduring friendships that truly define my experience at Wingate. Amidst the team's triumphs, I credit my personal growth to the guidance of Coach Collier, whose exceptional skills have been a constant source of inspiration. The deep camaraderie shared with my remarkable teammates, notably Maggie Malone, and the support of my family, and our loyal fans have played pivotal roles in my journey. The opportunity to participate in sports during my formative years is a privilege I have previously taken for granted, yet reflect on with gratitude. This honor encapsulates the compatibility of a wonderful team, without whom this experience would not have been possible. I am appreciative of the lifelong lessons and cherished memories that have shaped me. Thank you, Wingate, for an unforgettable journey."
Willis hauled in nearly every award possible in her final season in 2011, when she led the Bulldogs to the only undefeated regular season in program history. She was named the SAC Player of the Year and SAC Scholar-Athlete, guiding the 'Dogs to a 32-1 record and 18-0 SAC mark, leading the nation in winning percentage. She earned second team All-American honors from Daktronics and third team accolades from the AVCA. Willis was named a second team Academic All-America honoree and was the winner of the prestigious SAC President's Award, going to the top overall student-athlete in the entire conference.
Willis began her career by hauling in SAC and Region Freshman of the Year honors in 2008, handing out 9.80 assists per set. She followed with 9.96 assists per set as a sophomore, adding 2.50 digs per set as the Bulldogs went 36-2 overall and 16-0 in the SAC. Willis piled up 11.72 assists per set in her final season to go along with 2.77 digs per set and 57 kills as the 'Dogs dropped just 14 sets in 33 matches.
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