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Jocee Pleune has been recognized for her efforts on the volleyball court after being named the Michigan Community College Athletic Association Northern Conference Defensive Player of the Week for Oct. 20-26. 

Pleune (Grant, Mich.), a sophomore libero with the Montcalm Community College Centurions, helped lead the team to a pair of victories during the week while compiling 80 digs, averaging 4.71 digs per set. She also posted a .872 reception percentage and added five service aces. 

This is the first time in two years a Centurions volleyball player has been honored with the player of the week award. 

Her defensive performance came during a strong stretch for the Centurions, who finished October with a 5-5 record and secured a berth in the NJCAA Region XII District B tournament. 

“It feels like a really big accomplishment,” Pleune said. “I think covering my hitters and reading tips early has been one of my strongest parts of the game this season.” 

As the team's primary defensive specialist, Pleune has played a key role in keeping opponents off balance while helping anchor the Centurions' back row throughout the season. 

“I think I have become better this season at just my defense overall and also trying to communicate with my teammates on the court more,” Pleune said.  

The weekly conference honor recognizes the top offensive and defensive players in the MCCAA and highlights Pleune's impact as one of Montcalm's most consistent performers during the closing weeks of the regular season. 

“Jocee has stepped into the libero role mid-season when we made some adjustments in our lineup. She is very quick and reads the game well,” Centurions head coach Kara Youngs said. “She has been a big part of the defensive side, creating many opportunities for our offense.”