Jasmine Hale Honored With SWAC Defensive Player of the Week

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 01:59 PM

In her first year at Prairie View A&M University, transfer from Alcorn State Jasmine Hale has fit right in with the Lady Panthers, providing leadership as well as bringing experience to the court.

Jasmine was recruited as a setter to add athleticism and leadership to the position but because the Lady Panthers found themselves with multiple setters on the team, Hale was asked to bring her drive to excel to the libero position, which she has done just that. She has made this transition quite smoothly as she has been a defensive boost for the Lady Panthers this year.

“I think being an all around athlete Jasmine has made the transition from setter to libero quite well,” added eleventh year head coach Alicia Pete. “Jasmine would’ve been the third setter on the team, but because she brings great decision making and being an outstanding athlete she fit right in.”

Hale was awarded SWAC defensive player of the week accolades after recording 70 digs while adding six assists in five matches for the Lady Panthers last week. Hale’s performance helped propel Prairie View A&M to a spot in the championship match against Jackson State at the Southern Tournament.

“At first it was tough having to switch positions because I’ve never played it before and libero and setter are totally different,” said San Antonio native Jasmine Hale. “Coach Pete and Coach Tacho really worked me hard at it, which is the reason for my success.”

Jasmine is doing a lot more than just excelling on the court, majoring in Biology Pre-Medicine Hale plans to continue her education by attending medical school after she completes her bachelor degree here at Prairie View A&M University. Off the court Jasmine coaches high school volleyball as she has assisted many of girls make their high school teams.

Jasmine and the Lady Panthers continue their season as they take on Southern University at home on Thursday, October 14, 2009 at 7pm.