Marshalltown Community College sophomore Sam Hinrichs (Ankeny, IA/Ankeny) has signed her National Letter of Intent to play volleyball for the Francis Marion University Patriots for the 2015 season. Hinrichs was a two-year member of the MCC volleyball team.
Hinrichs served as the primary setter for the Tigers over the last two seasons. Over the course of her two-year career, Hinrichs never missed a match, playing in all 87 contests. Hinrichs recorded 2,465 career assists, averaging almost eight assists per set for the Tigers. Hinrichs posted career-totals of 415 kills, 88 service aces, 619 digs, and 61 blocks, upping her numbers in almost every category during her sophomore campaign.
As a sophomore, Hinrichs was named the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference (ICCAC) Athlete of the Week on Sept. 16. Hinrichs ranked third in the conference in total assists and assists per set in 2015.
As for Hinrichs' decision to leave the state of Iowa for a new playing career, the setter saw a number of opportunities that Francis Marion provided. "I felt like I could connect really well with the girls on the team," Hinrichs stated. "When I visited the campus, I could see myself playing with them and fitting in with the team. The distance away from home will be an adjustment, but I'm ready for it."
Hinrichs, who played in one of the most competitive NJCAA regions across the country in Region XI, knows that the NCAA Division II level is another step up. "I know the Division II level will be more competitive, but I'm ready to dedicate myself and continue to improve my career."
Francis Marion, which plays in the Peach Belt Conference, finished 9-20 overall and 5-13 in conference play in 2015.
As for her time at MCC, Hinrichs pointed to the relationships made over the last two years. "I was able to meet a lot of people at MCC and make great connections with people over the two years. It was a great stepping stone for my career."
Hinrichs plans to enroll in the school's Business Administration degree program. "That was another selling point," Hinrichs added. "They have an excellent business program that'll help my career." At MCC, Hinrichs was a two-time member of the Academic All-Region XI teams.