Woods Charter volleyball star Lexi Smollen is N&O high school athlete of the week

Woods Charter volleyball star Lexi Smollen is the News & Observer high school athlete of the week.

Smollen, a sophomore outside hitter, got 45 percent of the vote last week and more than 8,000 total. Jinkie Andrews of Orange finished second.

Smollen, an outside hitter had 58 kills, 17 digs, five aces and two blocks to lead Woods Charter to road wins at Eno River Academy and Research Triangle last week.

Smollen had 24 kills, two aces, seven digs and a block in 3-0 win at Eno River Academy Aug. 31.

She also had 34 kills, three aces, 10 digs and a block in 3-0 victory at Research Triangle.

Smollen was also named maxpreps.com/AVCA state player of the week for her efforts.

Want to nominate an athlete?: Athletes of the week highlights high school players with outstanding performances. The goal is to recognize all athletes in all sports, both the most accomplished and the underrated or underappreciated players. If you want to suggest someone to be included in the Athletes of the week column, send email to Jay Edwards at edwardraleighnewsobserver@gmail.com. Please include the athletes’ name, school, class and applicable game performance statistics. Coaches must be willing to verify information.

This story was originally published September 5, 2021 at 5:29 PM.