Mincey hires Papala as volleyball graduate assistant coach

Sabina Papala

Carson-Newman volleyball coach Shannon Mincey has announced the hiring of former Eagle middle hitter Sabina Papala as a graduate assistant coach.

“I look forward to working alongside Sabina,” Mincey said. “Her personality is enjoyable to work with and she is a hard worker. Her life experience will be an asset to us coming from Poland and playing for so many schools.”

Papala transferred to Carson-Newman for her senior season after starring for St. John’s through her junior year.

While playing for the Red Storm her sophomore and junior seasons, the 6-4 middle averaged .86 blocks per set. In her sophomore year, she registered a career-high 10 blocks, including nine assisted, against Seton Hall. In the same year, Papala racked up seven kills and a season-high four digs in a five-set win over Connecticut.

She continued her on-court prowess in an Orange and Blue uniform. In her senior season, Papala blocked .84 balls a set. She averaged 2.00 kills/set, while hitting .270.

“Our Eagles are a close-knit group of girls who are fun to be around.” Papala said. “They all love volleyball and are a hard-working dedicated group. I enjoy that the team is centered around Christ. I’m excited to work with coach Mincey who has great experience and a great past in our program.”

The Laziska-Gorne, Poland-native proved to be a thorn in the Newberry Wolves side in 2012 – blocking a season high eight and seven balls in the two matches with the Wolves. She produced a career high five solo blocks in the home game against Newberry.

Papala plastered a career high 13 kills with a .486 attack percentage in a road contest at Mars Hill.

“She is very independent and will do very well. I will utilize her most in our volleyball operations, recruiting and on-court training,” Mincey said.