The Hillsborough Community College volleyball team once again became state champions after a hard fought match against Polk State.

  This is the team’s third state championship, allowing the Lady Hawks to reclaim more championship glory.

  After defeating Polk State in a three set match (25-22, 25-17, 25-21), the Lady Hawks were crowned The Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA), State Champions.

  The HCC volleyball team had a lackluster 2014 season, and the girls were eager to turn it all around in 2015.

  According to Coach Gary Larkin, this is one of the hardest working groups he has ever coached. With the coaching of Larkin, and the girls desire to get back on top, the HCC volleyball team is ranked number 1 in Florida, and number 8 in the nation (NJCAA).

  Larkin, in preparation for the State Championship, focused on the team’s confidence.

  Back in October, the team reached a turning point after Larkin told the girls “We would not lose another game in the state of Florida.”

  Training, confidence and dedication are what the team credits for leading them to another State Championship.

  The team’s training regime was not your typical approach to a championship bout. The normal grueling, harsh and overwhelming training was not the way the Lady Hawks earned their State Championship.

  Instead, they backed down on the work hours, and put more emphasis on tactics related to various opponents.

  Larkin describes this year’s team as “extremely close and extremely funny,” and, he adds that the team’s relationship off the court is just as strong. The team is focused primarily on believing in themselves and trusting each other.

  Whether it is on or off the court, the team has a great relationship with each other, and enjoy spending time together.”

  Larkin and the team have appreciated the increased support from the HCC community.

  He adds, “I would like faculty and staff to know that we have greatly appreciated our increased fan support and marketing support.”

  Larkin goes on to say “The college has done a great job of sharing our team’s accomplishments with the HCC community, and our girls respect and appreciate that.”

  The girls of the team said they hope all HCC students and faculty feel a sense of pride, and that they will do their best to fight hard, all the way to the end.

  The team and Coach Larkin are ecstatic with their Florida State Champions title, and still have a long journey ahead.

  The Lady Hawks earned a trip to the city of Casper, Wyoming for the NJCAA National Championships. The tournament that began on November 19.

  The Lady Hawks returned from the trip finishing 3rd in the nation.