Story by Heather Johnson Area Public Information Specialist
North Platte Community College Knights Volleyball player Erica Hopping will continue her athletic career in Lincoln. Hopping signed her letter of intent Thursday to play for Nebraska Wesleyan University.
“I am truly humbled and excited to have an opportunity to continue my volleyball career,” Hopping said. “It was a tough decision, but I knew I would be happy at Nebraska Wesleyan. Although my job at NPCC is not over, I am so thankful for Coach [Rayna Cain] and the opportunity to hop on their journey as a Prairie Wolf.”
NPCC head volleyball coach Alexa McCall, who also happens to be Hopping’s sister, said she is excited for and proud of Hopping for taking this next step.
“I think Nebraska Wesleyan will be a good fit for her and will give her that competitive atmosphere that she enjoys being in,” McCall said. “I think Erica has grown as a player here at NPCC. She came to us with a little experience setting but has really stepped up to lead her team on and off the court. She has a high volleyball IQ and that’s something we really look for when we recruit setters. Her teammates respect her, and it has been really fun to coach her. I am excited to see how she continues with her volleyball career. She will be missed.”
Hopping was named to both the All Region IX Team and All Region IX Tournament Team in 2019. She was also named to the Omaha World-Herald All-Nebraska Volleyball first team.
Last season, Hopping averaged 9.25 assists per set, putting her at #10 in the record book of Knights Volleyball players. She also recorded 1,239 assists for the year, which put her at #8 in the record book.
Currently, Hopping is sitting at 507 total assists, ranking her fifth in the nation for Division 2, and at 7.8 assists per set, placing her 30th in the nation.
“I am beyond thankful for my support system that I have had throughout the years,” said Hopping. “My family and guardian angels up above have been a fan base that I am more than lucky to have. I am also thankful for the coaches I’ve had, teachers who pushed me and my peers for always supporting me. Lastly, I want to thank my parents and sisters, who have always rooted for me and pushed me beyond my limits. My love and passion for volleyball wouldn’t be where it is if it wasn’t for them.”