The Chico State volleyball has developed what is turning into a tradition. Head Coach Cody Hein installed a true freshman as the Wildcats' setter in 2005 and again in 2009, ensuring the program's success and stability for nearly a decade. Torey Thompson is following in the footsteps of Erica Brick and Sable Villaescusa, having taken over the setter slot in 2013. The first-year player from Newport Beach was instrumental in helping the 'Cats win three straight conference matches and grab sole possession of first place in the span of four days. For her efforts, Thompson is the latest Wildcat of the Week.
Thompson doled out 147 assists (an average of 11.31 assists per set) during last week's three California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) contests, while adding 43 digs, six kills and six blocks. The Wildcats triumphed over Cal State Stanislaus, Cal State Monterey Bay and Cal State East Bay.
Wednesday against Stanislaus, Thompson contributed 45 assists, 15 digs, four kills and one block in a four-set win. She piled up a season-high 57 assists and 18 digs in a thrilling five-set road victory Friday over Cal State Monterey Bay. Thompson capped the weekend with a 45-assist, three-block performance in the Wildcats' four-set win over Cal State East Bay Saturday.
Thompson leads the CCAA and is ranked No. 11 in the nation in assists per set (11.21). She has also racked up 105 digs and 12 service aces on the season.
Chico State is back in action this weekend, hosting a pair of nationally-ranked conference foes. Friday the Wildcats take on No. 20 Cal State San Bernardino. No. 10 UC San Diego visits Acker Gym on Saturday. Both matches are scheduled to get underway at 7 p.m.
