(Tuesday, February 24; Sioux Center, Iowa) The Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) has announced its Men's Volleyball Players-of-the-Week for matches played February 16-21, and Dordt's Cory Kuperus (Junior; Ireton, Iowa) was named Defender-of-the-Week.

Kuperus totaled 12 blocks in a 3-1 match win over Missouri Baptist and followed that with nine blocks against the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy. Dordt won all three of its matches last week and improved to 4-2 in HAAC play.

"Cory had an incredible week for us at the net. His ability to close the block with his teammates and press over the net to protect our floor from the attack was incredibly beneficial to our success last week. He continues to work hard to develop his skills. Cory is competitive and he's also humbled by this award. It's always encouraging to see hard work get recognized," said Dordt coach Chad Hanson.

Kuperus averaged 1.1 kills per set and 2.1 blocks per set in 11 sets played and had a kill efficiency of .226. The middle blocker is averaging 1.0 kills and 1.2 blocks per set this season, and the Defenders are 12-4 overall.

Dordt goes on the road this Friday and Saturday with matches at Clarke and Mount Mercy on February 27 and 28.