JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Edward Waters University junior middle blocker Jewel Helmuth has been named the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Women's Volleyball Offensive Player of the Week following a pair of outstanding performances that helped lead the Lady Tigers to an undefeated week in conference competition.
Helmuth was instrumental in Edward Waters' victories over Savannah State University and Clark Atlanta University, showcasing her offensive versatility and ability to deliver in crucial moments as the Lady Tigers posted a perfect 2-0 record.
Across the two matches, Helmuth compiled an impressive 26 kills, six digs, six service aces, and four blocks, providing a dominant presence at the net while helping the Purple and Orange continue their strong push through the SIAC standings.
The junior middle blocker opened the week with an efficient offensive performance in Edward Waters' 3-1 road victory over Savannah State, recording 12 kills while hitting an impressive .385. Her consistency and effectiveness at the net helped the Lady Tigers overcome an opening-set deficit to secure the four-set victory and complete the season sweep of Savannah State.
Helmuth carried that momentum into Thursday's highly anticipated Homecoming matchup against Clark Atlanta, delivering another exceptional performance in front of the home crowd inside James Weldon Johnson (JWJ) Gymnasium.
The junior standout finished with a team-high-tying 14 kills, six service aces, and three digs, helping Edward Waters secure a thrilling 3-1 victory over the Lady Panthers.
Helmuth's offensive efficiency was once again on full display, as she recorded a .345 hitting percentage while providing a significant spark from the service line. Her six aces proved especially valuable in a tightly contested matchup that featured two sets decided by just two points.
Her performance helped Edward Waters claim the opening set 29-27 before outlasting Clark Atlanta 28-26 in a pivotal third frame. The Lady Tigers then closed out the contest with a commanding 25-14 fourth-set victory.
The win completed another season sweep for Edward Waters, marking the Lady Tigers' second consecutive victory over a conference opponent they had already defeated earlier in the season.
Helmuth's contributions were a major factor in Edward Waters' offensive success throughout the week, as the Lady Tigers combined for 108 kills and 23 service aces across their two victories.
Her ability to produce points through both attacking and serving, while remaining a consistent presence at the net, has made her a valuable contributor to the Edward Waters lineup throughout the 2026 campaign.
The latest conference recognition further highlights Helmuth's continued development and impact as one of the Lady Tigers' leading offensive performers.
With the two victories, Edward Waters improved to 12-10 overall and 11-5 in SIAC play, extending its strong stretch of conference competition with seven wins in its last 10 matches.
As the Lady Tigers continue their pursuit of a strong postseason position, Helmuth's offensive production and leadership will remain important factors in the team's success down the stretch.
Helmuth and the Lady Tigers will return to action on Thursday, October 29, when Edward Waters travels to Columbia, South Carolina, for a highly anticipated SIAC rematch against Benedict College inside HRC Arena.
Edward Waters will look to avenge its earlier five-set setback against Benedict and continue building momentum as the regular season approaches its conclusion.
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