Alica Kandler Receives All-AmericanHonors

December 1, 2015

Alica Kandler is a dynamic force in the Falcon Volleyball program.  Kandler made a name for herself as a freshman in 2014, leading the way both offensively and defensively for the Falcons.  As Kandler entered her sophomore season, little had changed, she was still the dominant offensive contributor and reliable defender Daytona State would count on night after night.

Kandler joined the Daytona State program from afar.  She transitioned quickly and effectively to America as an international player from Germany.  It was in Germany that Kandler found her passion for the game of volleyball and enhanced her play competing with the junior national program and her prestigious club organization.

This season, Kandler was the constant player on the Falcon's opponent's scouting report.  Coaches sought ways to shut her down, but Kandler proved match after match that she would not be denied.  At the close of the season, she was honored on the Mid-Florida All Conference team.  Additionally, she received the prestigious honor of Mid-Florida Conference Player of the Year. 

Kandler finished the season with 402 kills, averaging 3.72 kills per set.  This impressive average was strong enough to land Kandler 14th in the nation overall in kills per set.  Though her offense was often what got the attention of her opponents and the spectators, her defensive ability is truly what sets her apart for most players.  "She has a keen ability to read her opponents, and her playing experience and game IQ allows her to always be one step ahead of the attacker," commented Coach Stegall on Kandler's defensive talents.

Kandler finished the season leading the Falcons with digs, with 408 digs.  Kandler's defensive skills, along with her many other talents caught the attention of many college programs, most specifically VCU and Coach Jody Rogers.  After visiting the VCU campus and program early in the fall, Kandler had great confidence in her decision to commit to the Rams Volleyball Program.  At the close of the 2015 season, Kandler signed her National Letter of Intent to join the Rams in fall 2016.

To cap off an impressive NJCAA career and 2015 season with the Lady Falcons, Kandler received the esteemed honor of NJCAA All-American.  Kandler was named to the 2nd Team, and stands alongside some of the best players in the country and our region. 

"The honor is well deserved.  Kandler gave her heart and soul to the last two years with our program, and has accomplished many great accolades for herself, as well as, advanced and established Daytona State into a nationally recognized program.  I am extremely proud of her accomplishments and I am quite confident that she will do impressive things at VCU, as well," Coach Stegall responded to Kandler's recent nomination.

Beyond the court, Kandler is an equally remarkable person and student.  She competes at the top echelon of the athletes at Daytona State academically.  Equally impressive is Kandler's spirit, and desire to never shy away from lending a helping hand, volunteering in the community, and stepping up as a leader both on and off the court.