Messenger photo by Britt Kudla: Former Manson Northwest Webster standout Olivia Sturgis tips the ball over the net inside Hodges Fieldhouse.

Olivia Sturgis earned one more honor before completely closing the Iowa Central chapter of her athletic career.

Sturgis, a former Manson Northwest Webster standout, was recently named the outstanding female athlete of the year for the Tritons, joining a long list of fellow volleyball players to be honored.

Currently enrolled at Minnesota State University, the 6-foot-1 junior is continuing her playing career with the Mavericks this coming fall.

“I am feeling incredibly grateful and honored to be named Iowa Central’s female athlete of the year,” Sturgis said. “This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of so many people who have been part of this journey.

“I’m beyond thankful for my coaches and teammates, who constantly pushed me to be better and helped me grow both as an athlete and as a person. I will miss the Iowa Central community.”

A two-time captain for the Tritons, Sturgis earned third team NJCAA All-American honors and was on the first team all-region this past season. She helped Iowa Central to a 30-9 record and fifth consecutive appearance at nationals.

Sturgis posted 298 kills with 172 total blocks and 46 digs this past season, finishing her two-year career with 602 kills in 80 matches. She had 325 total blocks and 87 digs.

Sturgis’ career kills total places her fourth in school history.

“Olivia was a great leader for us these past two years both on the court, off the court and in the classroom,” Iowa Central head coach Sara Horn said. “She epitomizes leading by example and would never ask her teammates do something she didn’t already do at a high level.

“It’s been great to see her be rewarded for her work, she is absolutely deserving of all of the awards she has received.”

Sturgis, who was a finalist for the ICCAC female athlete of the year, was a second team all-region selection as a freshman while also earning Academic All-American and first team academic all-region status.

“Most of all, I’m thankful for my family,” Sturgis said. “Their constant love, support and belief in me have been the foundation of everything I’ve accomplished.

“This recognition means the world to me, and I genuinely share it with everyone who has supported me along the way.”