For the first time in program history, Stanford beach volleyball has had a duo receive AVCA first team All-America honors as Xolani Hodel and Sunny Villapando garnered recognition on Wednesday morning.
"This recognition is a tremendous honor for a pair that came together as the season went along," head coach Andrew Fuller said. "They were a joy to watch. Their creativity, energy and patience were the foundation of their results. An amazing finish for Sunny in her last year and an incredible beginning for Xolani in her first. We are incredibly fortunate to work with these two women and it's an honor to be a part of their journey at Stanford."
Hodel and Villapando went 10-3 on the season as a duo, including a 7-2 record at the No. 1 spot. After one match together on February 17, the pair rejoined forces on April 17 and played 15 straight matches together to close the season. They compiled a 10-2 record with three unfinished duals to close their season, including postseason wins over Cal and Arizona State at Pac-12 Championships and a thrilling 2-1 win over Cal Poly at the NCAA Championship.
To be considered for AVCA first team All-America recognition, the pair must have a winning record and play at the No. 1 spot. A head coach may nominate their No. 1 and No. 2 pairs only, but the No. 2 pair was only considered if the No. 1 pair is selected.